FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
WATER QUALITY REPORT
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UMATILLA RIVER BASIN
WATER QUALITY REPORT
United States Department of the Interior
Federal Water Pollution Control Administration
Northwest Region
Portland, Oregon
July 1969
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PAGE NOT
AVAILABLE
DIGITALLY
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CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION 1
FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 3
STUDY AREA DESCRIPTION - 5
ECONOMY 7
WATER RESOURCES 11
WATER USES 13
WATER QUALITY REQUIREMENTS 15
WASTE INPUTS 17
PRESENT WATER QUALITY 21
PREDICTED WATER QUALITY 25
EVALUATION 37
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LIST OF TABLES
Table Page
1 Industrial Growth Indices 8
2 Population Projections 9
3 Proiected Waste Inputs 20
4 Water duality, Umatilla River 24
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Proposed Water Resources Development
Facilities F>
Hydrology, Umatilla River Basin
Projected Waste Input
Predicted Umatilla River Dissolved Oxygen
Profile
Stream Temperature Profiles
Umatilla River Temperatures
Ryan Reservoir, Comparison of Two Operating
Schemes
Beacon Reservoir, Comparison of Two
Ooerating Schemes
Reservoir Surface Water Temperature Pre-
dicted
Pa^e
"ontispiece
12
18
27
30
31
32
33
34
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INTRODUCTION
Purpose
The Bureau of Reclamation (BR) is preparing a comprehensive
plan for water resource development of the entire Umatilla Basin.
In developing the proposed plan for construction of dams, canals,
and other facilities, they have considered all water needs,
such as irrigation, municipal and industrial water supplies,
fisheries, and recreation. An intensive development as proposed
in the plan, where water is stored, diverted, and reused, will
exert a significant effect upon the basin's water quality. In
addition to meeting general water quality standards, there are
special water quality requirements associated with the fishery
function of the plan.
The purpose of this investigation was to predict the water
quality resulting from project development and to recommend
steps to improve water quality where it will not meet require-
ments. Although the Federal Water Pollution Control Administra-
tion (FWPCA) was consulted from the inception of this latest
Bureau plan, not until early 1969 were manpower resources avail-
able to prepare this investigation. At that time, the plan had
been structured and nearly completed, so this water quality
analysis is largely an impact study. Nevertheless, coordination
was effected among the fishery agencies, Bureau of Outdoor
Recreation, and FWPCA to assure that the water quality necessary
to support the fish and recreation functions could be achieved.
The major aspect of this study is the prediction of future
water quality. A dissolved oxygen model was developed for the
main stem Umatilla River from Ryan Reservoir to the mouth.
Predictions of dissolved oxygen levels were prepared for the
time horizons of 1980, 2000, and 2020. Conditions with and
without the project were modeled. Since only available water
quality and stream characteristic data were used in defining
the model, an explicit determination of reaeration and deoxygena-
tion rates and time of travel was not feasible, nor was it
possible to test the predictive accuracy against a measured con-
trol situation. Nevertheless, experience and judgment indicate
that the model satisfactorily represents the stream oxygen
dynamics for study purposes.
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The Ryan, Beacon, and Snipe Reservoirs were modeled for
temperature conditions throughout the year. Ryan and Beacon
outflow characteristics were then used as an Input to the river
temperature model, which extended from Ryan Reservoir to the
Columbia River. These models were used not only to predict
downstream temperatures under the proposed project operating
conditions, but also to vary reservoir operations to achieve
specific temperature goals. Again, available data were used
to develop the models.
In examining..the future 50-year period, a single, most
likely, economic forecast was selected. It was based upon the
Columbia-North Pacific Type .1 Framework Economic Study and
interviews in the basin identifying presently developing trends.
Authority
The FWPCA is responsible for providing water quality analyses
and"recommendations for all Federal water resource development
projects. This function js described in Section 3 of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act and in Executive Order 11288, which
describes procedures for the prevention of water pollution by
Federal activities.
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FINDINGS.AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Findings
1.. The.proposed Bureau of Reclamation (BR) water resource
development plan for'the Umatilla Basin will improve water quality
during the summer when quality levels are the lowest. , The in-
creased summer "flows will maintain average daily,dissolved oxygen
concentration levels above State standards. This will enhance
fishery and recreation use of the. stream.
2. Summer temperatures in the Umatilla River below Ryan
Reservoir can be lowered through proper operation of Ryan and Beacon
Reservoirs. These lowered temperatures will, in most instances, meet
the requirements for anadrombus fish. Two levels of outlets at Ryan
Reservoir, at elevation 2,000 and 2,140, and three levels 'at Beacon
Reservoir, at elevations 1,100, 1,190 and 1,205, will be sufficient
to provide needed temperature control of the releases.
3. The Umatilla stream system carries sufficiently high levels
of nutrients that there is a potential for excessive algal growths
in the proposed Beacon, Stage and Stanfield reservoirs. Should
excessive growths occur, recreation would be adversely affected and
dissolved oxygen would be depleted in the lower levels of the re-
servoir. More data is required to define this condition.
4. Return flows from the proposed irrigation of 100,000 acres
of newly developed lands will have a significant influence upon
Umatilla River dissolved oxygen and nutrient concentrations. Mini-
mizing the quantities of these return flows will correspondingly
minimize the effects on water quality.
5. Irrigation of cover crops with treated waste effluent
should be practiced in this basin to provide an effective means for
ultimate waste disposal.
6. The present management of the wheat-producing lands results
in major soil loss to the streams, causing periodic large sediment
loads and deposits and aesthetically displeasing water color and
turbidity.
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Recommendations
1. Water quality enhancement be Included as a project purpose.
2. Attainment of temperature objectives for anadromous fish be
a recognized purpose in operating Ryan and Beacon Reservoirs.
3. The incremental flows in the Umatilla River will annually
save $30,000 in waste handling costs, required to meet Oregon State
Water Quality Standards. This saving should be credited to the
proposed project development.
4. Additional data be collected and'further study be devoted
to defining the algal productivity potential in the proposed reser-
ve i rs.
5. Good water conservation measures, such as sprinkler irri-
gation systems and canal linings, be made a major objective in the
proposed plan.
6. Proper land management and conservation practices on the
wheat fields and grazing lands surrounding Pendleton-Hermiston be
more strictly implemented to prevent further major erosion losses to
the stre'am system.
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STUDY AREA DESCRIPTION
The Umatilla River Basin, shown on Figure 1, is situated
in northeastern Oregon and contains 3,241 square miles of land
ranging from an agricultural plain on the north to the forested
Blue Mountains on the south. The northeastern agricultural
plain is almost exclusively wheat or irrigated crops, with trees
scattered only along the river or in the communities in the
basin. Climate is temperate and semi-arid, varying somewhat
with elevation. About 86 percent of the basin is privately
owned, with the remainder administered by governmental agencies.
Land use is as follows: 48 percent rangeland; 36 percent crop-
land (19 percent wheat); 14 percent forest!and; 0.5 percent in
towns.
The Umatilla River is a perennial stream flowing generally
west through the basin, turning north in its final reaches to
discharge into the Columbia River. Most of the tributaries
that feed the Umatilla River are intermittent, flowing only
during fall rains and spring snowmelt periods. For much of
its length below Gibbon, the Umatilla is a relatively shallow
stream flowing over a broad, rocky bed or gentle gravel bars.
Below Pendleton, there are reaches where the river narrows
and deepens.
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ECONOMY
The basin economy Is principally dependent upon agriculture
and forest products. Livestock accounted for the largest portion
of the total farm products sold in 1964. A small amount of food
processing—primarily pea processing—a small mobile home manu-
facturer, and a community college are also significant contri-
butors to the basin's economy.
Present
Just over half of the basin's population of approximately
38,000 live in and around Pendleton and Hermiston. Six small,
scattered communities in the basin contain most of the remaining
population. Emigration from the area has more than balanced
natural increase.
While there has been little relative change in total
basin population over the last 15 years, there is a general
trend of people moving from rural areas and the widely scattered
small towns into Pendleton and Hermiston. This trend toward
urbanization has begun to manifest an urban sprawl around these
two communities. Pendleton has dominated the area in the past.
Thousands of acres of wheat surround Pendleton. Irrigation
along the rivers and in the Stanfield-Hermiston area provides
some food products for processing, as well as hay for cattle
production. Among the irrigated lands, 40,000 acres are devoted
to pea production, resulting in a significant food-processing
industry in Pendleton. Three cattle feedlots and one hog feed-
lot, each holding several thousand animals, are scattered
through the basin.
Forest products manufacturing includes several sawmills,
principally the Harris mill in Pendleton and the Georgia-Pacific
mill in Pilot Rock. U. S. Gypsum has a small fiberboard and
hardboard plant also at Pilot Rock.
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8
Future
Population and industrial production were projected for
the basin, using the Columbia-North Pacific economic projections
as a framework. Near term trends and potential developments
helped s.hap.e the short-range projections.
Although the basin economy has been relatively stable in
the past, .significant growth is expected in the future. It is
expected that relatively-, large areas in the northern portion
of the basin will come under irrigation with or without Federal
money. This will induce the establishment of several food-
processing plants and a concomitant growth in service employment.
Most of the expected growth will be in the Hermiston-Umatilla
area (particularly around the port area) rather than around the
Pendleton area. Since those industries locating in the lower end
of the basin will have little or no impact on the Umatilla River,
only industries and population in the upper portion,of the basin
were projected. Indices of industrial growth for major waste-
producing industries in the upper portion are shown below.
TABLE 1
INDUSTRIAL GROWTH INDICES
Heron's ton food processing
Pendleton food processing
Pendleton meat packing
Pendleton woolen mills
1963
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1980
1.8
1.5
1.6
1.3
2000
2.4
2.0
1.6
1.3
2020
3.4
2.7
1.6
1.3
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Food-processing plants have large quantities of residual
waste loads to handle. Nearby watercourses such as the Umatilla
River are potential sinks for their wastes, so these plants are
critical to an appraisal of the future condition of the river's
quality. For that reason, attention was given to the future
seasonal period of operation for food-processing plants, pro-
jections of which are:
Year Period
1980 May 25 - August 15
2000 May 25 - September 15
2020 May 25 - October 31
In summary, the Umatilla Basin is expected to exhibit
strong population and economic growth in the future, with agri-
culture and forest products continuing their dominance. Al-
though a shift is expected in population and industrial growth
towards the Hermiston-Umatilla area, the upper portion of the
basin around Pendleton is expected to continue to realize a
moderate growth. Population in the basin is expected to grow
as follows:
1980 52,400
2000 68,900
2020 80,000
Population projections for major communities are listed
below.
TABLE 2
POPULATION PROJECTIONS
Hermiston
Pendleton
Pilot Rock
1980
9,000
18,000
1,500
2000
18,000
22,000
1,500
2020
22 ,000
26 ,000
1,500
Stanfield-Echo 1,800 2,100 3,000
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WATER RESOURCES
The hydrology of the Umatilla River, as well as the existing
and planned developments, are described in detail in the Bureau
of Reclamation report. The following discussion briefly des-
cribes aspects having significance to the subsequent water
quality analysis. All hydrologic computations were prepared
by the Bureau of Reclamation.
The 1931 water year was used in the quality analyses, since
it represented approximately a one-in-ten-year low flow situation.
The 1931 flows as recorded are used to approximate the hydrologic
conditions without the proposed development. Following that
discussion, the proposed development and the expected flows
are described.
Without Basin Development
McKay Reservoir presently stores up to 73,000 acre-feet
of winter flows each year for summer releases down the Umatilla
River mostly to the irrigation districts surrounding Hermiston.
Normally, storage is exhausted by August, but the State Engineer
considers this a full water supply for existing lands if properly
utilized. The districts are undertaking water conservation
methods to reduce losses and extend the supply.
Cold Springs Reservoir, with a capacity of 50,000 acre-
feet, is fed by winter and spring" Umatilla River flows diverted
near Echo. Cold Springs storage serves primarily the Hermiston
lands.
The present system acts to augment Umatilla River flows
from McKay Creek to about Echo during the late spring to early
summer period. Around late August, when storage is normally
exhausted, flows drop down towards unregulated base flow levels.
Hydrographs of present summer flows are shown on Figure 2 for
three stations on the river, compared to flows with the proposed
development.
With Basin Development
Figure 1 shows the major facilities proposed for the basin.
Ryan Dam would store up to 110,000 acre-feet of main stem flood
flows for later release during the summer. Beacon Dam would
store 80,000 acre-feet of flows in excess of downstream re-
quirements which are diverted from the Umatilla River below
Ryan. These flows would also be released to the river during
the summer.
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12
Denning Dam on Birch Creek would have 16,500 acre-feet of
active storage capacity, releases of which would primarily
irrigate lands lying along Birch Creek. This would not have a
significant effect upon Umatilla River flows during late summer.
Snipe Dam would store 63,000 acre-feet offstream of Camas
Creek in the John Day Basin for transbasin diversion to irrigate
lands lying along Butter Creek. Snipe Dam, as is Beacon Dam,
is expected to support heavy recreation use as well as irrigation
water supply storage.
The effect these facilities would have upon streamflows
in the Umatilla River is shown on Figure 2. It is evident that
flows during the critical low water period of July-September
are augmented all the way downstream from Ryan Dam. In the same
manner, although not shown, Birch Creek and Butter Creek summer
flows would be increased substantially over present levels.
FIGURE 2. HYDROLOGY - UMATILLA RIVER BASIN
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WATER USES
The principal use of surface water is irrigation, with
irrigation diversions in effect since the late 1800's. Fishery
and recreation water uses are also extensive.
Muni ci pal -1ndus tri al Suppli es
All communities and industries draw their supplies from
ground water. Two lumber mills use surface waters for their
mill ponds, however. Most future municipal and industrial
supplies are expected to come from ground water, although
Pendleton holds surface rights to 21.7 cfs of natural flow in
the Umatilla River. The project plan includes a municipal and
industrial water supply for the City of Pendleton.
Irrigation
Nearly 30,000 acres in the lower Umatilla Basin are irri-
gated from the Umatilla River. Storage at McKay and Cold Springs
Reservoirs supplements natural flows for about. 17,000 of these
acres. Through the project facilities provided in the recom-
mended plan, about 100,000 acres of presently dry lands.would
be furnished a full irrigation supply. The project facilities
would also provide supplemental water for about 20,000 acres
in the basin.
Fishery
At one time, the Umatilla River supported large runs of
spring and fall chinook salmon and steel head trout. Now, be-
cause of the pattern of stream regulation and lowered water
quality, steel head trout is the only anadromous species left
in significant numbers in the system. A few chinook salmon
remain and coho are being planted, but unless summer flows are
increased in quality and fall flows in quantity and quality,
the salmon runs will not be re-established. Steel head have
survived because their runs correspond with the periods of
high flows. Young steelhead are reared in the upper areas of
the watershed where summer flows are not diverted and remain
cool.
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The proposed project has been developed to enhance condi-
tions sufficient to re-establish and develop the large chinook
salmon runs, establish coho salmon runs, and Increase the size
of the steel head runs. Thus, under future conditions, It Is
expected that these species would again use the system extensively.
Resident game fish Include Dolly Varden, brook, and rainbow
trout; bass; and bluegills. Fishing takes place In certain
areas along the river, although much of It Is limited because
of limited access by the Umatilla Indian Reservation or private
land posted against trespass.
Under projected development, stream fishery catch is expected
to double, and reservoir fishery is projected to grow to 30 times
the present level.
Recreation
Water-based recreation occurs on the basin's rivers and
reservoirs as long as adequate quantities of water are available.
The types of recreation include fishing, boating, and picnicking.
There is a large demand for water-based recreation here.
Swimming, water skiing, and boating are all popular sports re-
quiring suitable resources. The planned development anticipates
considerable recreation usage of the reservoirs, as well as
increased stream recreation use with increased flows.
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WATER QUALITY REQUIREMENTS
The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).has estab-
lished genera] water quality standards which apply to the Umatilla
River. ' These standards state in part: "No wastes shall be dis-
charged and no activities shall be conducted which, either alone
or in combination with other wastes, or activities will cause. . .:
1. The dissolved'oxygen content ... to be less than
six (6) mg/1 . . .
4. The development of fungi or other growths having
a deleterious effect on stream bottoms, fish or
other aquatic life, or which are injurious to
health, recreation or industry.
7. Objectionable discoloration, turbidity, scum,
oily slick or floating solids, or coat aquatic
life with oil films.
8. Bacterial pollution or other conditions deleterious
to waters used.for domestic purposes, livestock
watering, irrigation, bathing ... or be other-
wise injurious to public health."
(On comparable streams, the standards state: "Average con-
centrations of coliform bacteria not to exceed 1,000 per 100 ml,
with 20% of samples not to exceed 2,400 per 100 ml.")
These standards indicate minimum levels of acceptable water
quality.
The reestablishment of the chinook and coho salmon runs is
predicated upon attaining recommended stream quality requirements.
These include a minimum dissolved oxygen content of 7 mg/1 through-
out the Umatilla River. Water temperatures from September 15 to
June 1 should not exceed 14° C. (57.2° F.) between Ryan Dam and
Echo. Water temperatures should not exceed 19° C. (66.2° F.) in
this reach from June 1 to September 15.
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The use of surface waters for water-based recreation is
closely related to such water quality factors as clarity, color,
and temperature. It has been demonstrated that recreation demand
decreases proportionately to decreasing water quality. Two causes
of these problems in the Umatilla are biological growths such as
algae which cause turbidity and slimes, and sediment which causes
turbidity. Algal growths are highly dependent upon dissolved
nutrients in the water. Much research is under way to determine
the relationship between nutrients and algal densities, but in
the interim the following recommended maximum levels have been
used as limiting for nuisance algal growths:
Flowing streams Nitrogen 1.0 mg/1
Phosphorus 0.1 mg/1
Lakes, impoundments Nitrogen 0.3 mg/1
Phosphorus 0.015 mg/1
Algal and aquatic growths can occur with lesser nutrient
levels, but the density is generally tolerable. Above these
levels, with other environmental factors being adequate, ex-
cessive growths will occur which may result in floating scums,
with suspended matter giving rise to murky, turbid water or
attached filaments. Besides being aesthetically obnoxious,
excessive algae cause diurnal fluctuations in dissolved oxygen
and pH.
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WASTE INPUTS
Accurate analysis and prediction of water quality depend
mainly upon a good appraisal of waste inputs. For the dissolved
oxygen model, this description takes the form of the ultimate
biochemical oxygen demand (BOD ult.) for each waste. Reference
was made to DEQ waste discharge data, which represent spot measure-
ments taken at various times over the past five years. These were
adjusted to account for known changes 1n growth or treatment
capabilities.
Agricultural wastes could not be defined directly. Estimates
of waste loads were prepared, using data from the Yakima Basin.
Municipal and Industrial Hastes
Waste inputs to the Umatilla River system can be seen on
Figure 3. Pendleton is both the uppermost and the largest waste
source discharging to the Umatilla River. Therefore, prediction
of water quality is highly sensitive to economic projections for
Pendleton. Presently, Pendleton has a major food-processing
plant, a woolen mill, and a meat-packing plant that contribute
significant waste loads in addition to the waste loads from the
normal mix of people and commercial establishments. It is planned
that an overloaded secondary sewage treatment plant will be
expanded and upgraded within the next two years, and the ex-
panded plant will treat the mix of industrial and municipal wastes,
with effluent disposal to the river. The predicted growth in
raw waste loads, treatment efficiency, and waste input to the
river for Pendleton as well as the other municipalities is shown
on Table 3 at the end of this section.
Echo has no sewer system and is presently served by indivi-
dual septic tanks. Stanfield is sewered, with an acceptable
secondary treatment plant. Hermiston is also sewered with an
acceptable secondary treatment plant, but high ground-water
Infiltration during the summer irrigation season overloads the
existing plant, resulting in reduced removals of organic material.
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West Extension C.
UMATILLA RIVER BASIN
I960
YEAR ^200
2O20
FIGURE 3. PROJECTED WASTE INPUTS
On Birch Creek, Pilot Rock has an adequate sewer system
and waste stabilization pond. The U. S. Gypsum plant at Pilot
Rock, manufacturing hardboard and plasterboard products, disposes
of Its waste to land the year around, with no effluent discharged
directly to the creek.
Athena, along Wildhorse Creek, provides secondary treatment
for its small tributary population. The cannery at Athena applies
its waste effluent to land. Adams has no system, relying upon
individual septic tanks for waste handling. During the summer
and late fall, Wildhorse Creek contributes little flow to the
Umatilla River.
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Projected waste Inputs .were developed by applying unit loads
to the projected economic growth indices shown on Table 1, Econo-
mic Section. Following consultation with DEQ, the levels of
treatment efficiencies shown in the table were assumed. It was
also assumed that U. S. Gypsum would continue land disposal of its
waste, that Vlildhorse Creek would not contribute significant waste
loads to the Umatilla River during the low-flow period, and that
Echo would be sewered.
Agricultural Wastes
Three main pollutants are contributed to the Umatilla River
through agricultural operations. These are: (1) cattle wastes
from feeding pens on watercourses, which introduce oxygen-de-
manding material, bacteria, and nutrients to the stream, (2)
irrigation return flows, introducing mostly nutrients and some
oxygen-demanding organics, and (3) sediment. There is no infor-
mation on the effects of the cattle wastes or irrigation return
flows. For future waste inputs, it was assumed that cattle feed
lots would be removed from all streams around 2000.. Irrigation
return flows were expected to persist unchanged without the pro-
ject, and with the project would increase in quantity according
to Bureau of Reclamation projections. Irrigation return flows
were assumed to be divided approximately 75% surface and 25%
subsurface. The surface flows were assumed to have a 1 mg/1
oxygen deficit, while subsurface flows enter the stream with
zero dissolved oxygen. The BOO of the cattle wastes was estimated
from information "derived from the literature for the expected
size of feeding operations during the low-flow season. The BOD
of the irrigation return flows was estimated from data collected
for the Yakima River Basin.
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TABLE 3
PROJECTED WASTE INPUTS I/
BOD ULTIMATE/DAY - POUNDS
1980
Raw Treatment
Waste Efficiency
Pendleton
Pilot Rock
Echo-Stanfield
Hermiston
37,000
330
420
27,500
90%
85%
85%
90%
Waste
Discharge
3,700
50
60
2,750
2000
Raw Treatment
Waste Efficiency
44,000
330
500
39,600
90%
90%
90%
90%
Waste
Discharge
4,400
33
50
3,960
2020
Raw Treatment
Waste Efficiency
56,000
330
660
54,000
94%
90%
90%
95%
Waste
Discharge
3,360
33
66
2,700
]/ Loads during canning season, as defined in Economic Section of Report.
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PRESENT WATER QUALITY
The quality of the Umatilla River is adequate to serve
most uses. Table 4 at the end of this section shows the range of
concentrations measured at two stations on the river. In the
Blue Mountain source headwaters, the water is cool, clear, low
in pollutants, and high in dissolved oxygen. After it flows past
Pendleton and through the wheat fields to the Columbia River, its
character has been degraded as a result of present waste dis-
charges and land management practices. The water carries heavy
sediment loads at times, has high bacterial levels, lowered dis-
solved oxygen levels, and some algal growths. These factors are
discussed for the river's condition during July and August, when
use demands are at a maximum and flows are at a minimum.
Dissolved Oxygen
A relatively shallow, fast-moving stream, the Umatilla has
a large capacity for accepting atmospheric oxygen. In the past,
waste loads have not driven oxygen levels down excessively, with
measured dissolved oxygen levels consistently exceeding 8 mg/1.
Several measurements in the lower reaches show significant super-
saturated levels, indicating considerable algal activity in the
summer and fall months. Because dissolved oxygen measurements
were taken only during the day a few times a year, actual levels
and their range of fluctuation are not known.
Temperature
The stream temperatures usually reach their highest levels
in July and August. In the upper reaches above Meacham Creek,
maximum temperatures of 74° F. have been recorded during August.
The average August maximum temperature is around 69° F. Down-
stream near Umatilla, stream temperatures are substantially
higher, with 85° F. the highest recorded measurement. August
temperatures here normally range in the middle 70's.
Temperature requirements for anadromous fish, as previously
mentioned under Mater Quality Requirements, are September 15 to
June 1 water temperatures not to exceed 57° F. and June 1 to
September 15 water temperatures not to exceed 66° F.
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Nutrients
Concentrations of nitrates (N03 - N) and phosphates (PO^) have
been quite high. Above Pendleton, average measurements by DEQ have
been about one-third of those below Pendleton indicating that a
major source of nutrients is the Pendleton waste load. However,
as an example, nutrient levels above Pendleton are more than twice
those experienced in the Willamette River.
N03 - N P04
Station Location mg/1 mg/1
Above Pendleton 0.10 0.13
At Rieth Bridge 0.38 0.44
At Yoakum Bridge 0.25 0.40
Near Umatilla 0.40 0.28
These nutrient-rich waters cause significant aquatic growths
in both Cold Springs and McKay Reservoirs as well as in the
Umatilla River. Beginning about June in the reservoirs, algal
growths emerge and grow to peak density in July and August. The
algae are suspended in the surface waters, reducing visibility
and giving the water a greenish cast. The density of algal
growth depresses fishing and water-contact sports during July
and August. Odors are apparent from the algal die-off along the
shoreline. No adverse effects on the reservoir fisheries due
to oxygen depression from the algal growths have been noted.
The aquatic stream growths are primarily mosses and slimes
on the bottom of the river. Photosynthesis of these growths
have caused a recorded 170% supersaturated stream dissolved oxygen
level.
Bacteriological
Pendleton waste effluent and the cattle feed lot at Rieth
exert the primary effect upon bacteriological quality. Above
Pendleton, coliform bacteria levels are generally below 1,000
MPN per 100 ml. The median measurement has been 230 MPN per
100 ml. Below Pendleton, measurements are normally above 6,000
with a median of 7,000 and seven measurements of 70,000 MPN per
100 ml. By the time the river reaches Umatilla, recorded levels
have decreased to the range of 45 to 7,000, with a median of
700 MPN per 100 ml. Adequate, consistent treatment and chlorina-
tion of Pendleton wastes, control of feed lots, and prevention
of animal entry to the surface waters would bring bacterial levels
down to acceptable limits.
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23
Sediment
The Umatilla River and its tributaries normally yield large
amounts of sediments. Peak levels occur during periods of high
streamflows caused by rainstorms or rapid snowmelt. Most of the
sediment is derived from the agricultural lands below Meacham
Creek lying around and west of Pendleton. These lands alternate
annually between wheat and fallow fields. Less than 20% of the
fallow fields are kept in stubble mulch, the remainder being
barren and particularly susceptible to erosion forces.
The effect of silt erosion on water quality is extreme
turbidity and the appearance of light chocolate color. The
water is aesthetically displeasing, adversely affects fish life
by depressing their respiration capabilities, and clogs and
fills water conveyance and storage facilities.
Suspended sediment has been measured and recorded for the
Umatilla River near Umatilla since October 1962. The peak sedi-
ment load was 39,000 ppm recorded in July 1965. During the
December 1964 flood, a peak of 21,000 ppm was recorded. Annual
sediment movement reported past the gage has ranged up to over
2,000,000 tons per year. The Forest Service has recently in-
stalled additional sediment sampling stations, but data from
these stations are not presently available.
The existing storage facilities of McKay and Cold Springs
Reservoir are not particularly effective in reducing sediment
transport because of their locations relative to sediment source
and conveyance. Cold Springs Reservoir has lost approximately
10% of its capacity in 60 years of operation due to storage of
eroded silts.
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TABLE 4
WATER QUALITY
UMATILLA RIVER
Range of Concentrations
(Minimum to Maximum)
mg/1, except as noted
Umatilla River
Umatilla River above above Echo ]_/
Constituents Pendleton I/ (at Yoakum Bridge)
Sulfate 1-7 3-11
Chloride 1-5 1-9
Alkalinity (CaCOs) 22-48 28-74
Hardness (CaCOa) 20-39 22-63
Total Solids 66-133 79-1,420
Suspended Solids 4-25 3-1,280
Nitrate 0.01-0.20 0.02-0.55
Phosphate 0.03-0.44 0.07-1.80
pH Units 7.2-9.0 7.1-9.0
Temperature op 39-82 34-75
Turbidity (JCU) 1-16 0-80
Coliform (MPN/100 ml). 13-6,200 210-70,000
Dissolved Oxygen 7.9-13.2 9-14.3
Percent Saturation 90-115 85-170
!_/ Data from Department of Environmental Quality. Sampled
monthly from 1960-1962, biannually thereafter.
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PREDICTED WATER QUALITY
The future water quality, with which we are concerned here,
will depend upon many factors controllable by man: (1) the type
and adequacy of waste treatment facilities for the towns and
industries, as well as the competency of operation, (2) the kinds
and sizes of major waste-producing industries that will locate
here and the treatment provided for their wastes, (3) the type
of water and land management.
Prognostications of these factors were made discretely for
the predictive models. Waste treatment levels which could be
expected were considered, and a most reasonable level within the
framework of expected Oregon State Department of Environmental
Quality management policy, Water Quality Standards, and pro-
jected technological advances was selected. Similar considera-
tions went into each assumption built into the model, so that
many alternatives were evaluated and discarded at a low level
of analysis. This did not allow sensitivity testing of the
model for possible synergistic effects that might occur with
variance of the assumptions around the selected design. Basic
assumptions regarding treatment efficiencies, waste loadings,
and stream characteristics were identical for both the "with"
and "without" project conditions.
Hydrologic data were furnished by the Bureau of Reclamation.
The design water year selected was 1931, which represented about
a one-in-ten-year recurrence low-flow event.
A mathematical simulation, or model, of the dissolved oxygen
system of the Umatilla River from Ryan Dam to the mouth was
developed. There were no time-of-travel data available, so
velocity-discharge relationships were derived from stream cross-
section data. Data of biochemical oxygen demand (five-day),
dissolved oxygen previously collected on the river were considered
to be not representative of deoxygenation and reaeration charac-
teristics during the critical summer low-flow period. Reaeration
rate constants were derived from the Krenkel-Orlob and Langbein-
Durum equations. Deoxygenation rates were derived through evalu-
ation of the available data and adjusted to represent expected
conditions. During the canning season, k was assumed to be 0.58.
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26
Stream temperatures were taken from the temperature model for
the "with" and "without" project conditions. Stream hydrology,
including the quantity and location of irrigation return flows
and diversions, was included in the model. Following consulta-
tion with the BR, irrigation return flows were assumed to be
25% subsurface and 75% surface, with the subsurface flows con-
taining zero dissolved oxygen.
Temperature was modeled, for Ryan and Beacon Reservoirs and
the Umatilla River, reflecting the influence of the reservoir
releases. Data defining the reservoir conformation and average
weather conditions at both reservoirs were available.
Each model was used to predict conditions at the three
time horizons of 1980, 2000, and 2020 for the situation if the
basin does not undergo the proposed water resource development
and for conditions with the proposed basin plan implemented.
The discussion below treats predicted oxygen levels and tempera-
ture conditions under each level of development.
Nutrients were not modeled and are discussed under each
section only in a qualitative manner. Sediment considerations
are also generally discussed. Butter Creek was not modeled for
either dissolved oxygen or temperature, primarily because there
are no data for the stream from which to derive a model. Neither
is it expected to support a significant fish population, so
exceptional quality requirements are not a major consideration
in the plan. Finally, it is expected that the cool, high quality
summer releases from Snipe Reservoir should provide at least as
good, if not better, quality streamflows as exist without the
project.
Without Basin Development
Very little additional Umatilla River water use for irri-
gation development is expected, since storage is required to
gain adequate water supplies both for some of the presently
irrigated lands as well as for any new increment of irrigation,
Some development of irrigation will probably take place along
the Columbia River, with water supply pumped from the Columbia
to suitable adjacent lands.
Flow characteristics would be expected to remain the same
in the Umatilla River. Thus, no additional summer flows will
be available for assimilation of the anticipated growth in
Pendleton and Hermiston waste effluent.
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27
Dissolved Oxygen
The predicted growth of Pendleton is largely independent of
the effects of the proposed water resource development. Therefore,
future waste effluent discharged to the river is likely to in-
crease to the same degree, with or without the project. Oxygen-
demanding organics, nutrients and solids, will impose a growing load
upon the river's oxygen resources.
The predicted average daily oxygen profile without project
development is shown on Figure 4 for August 1980. This profile
represents the most adverse oxygen condition during the year.
Profiles for the years 2000 and 2020 are comparable, as the
projected increase in waste treatment effectiveness approximately
counter balances the predicted waste load growth.
WITHOUT PROJECT
8|~ WITH PROJECT
FISH D.O. REQUIREMENT
"STATE "D!O "STANDARD"
IT-
WASTE INPUTS
Hermiston Stanfield-Echo Birch Creek Pendleton
AUGUST 1980
0 10 20 30 40 50 6O 70 8O
RIVER MILE
FIGURE 4. PREDICTED UMATILLA RIVER DISSOLVED OXYGEN PROFILE
The predicted dissolved oxygen level remains above 7 mg/1
all the way down the river to the Hermiston waste effluent input,
where concentrations plunge to less than 2 mg/1. Although the
Pendleton effluent has a marked effect upon the dissolved oxygen
regime, it does not drive levels below the 7 mg/1 level needed
for anadromous fisheries. Hermiston's effluent exerts such an
immediate and significant effect because Umatilla River flows
are extremely low through this last reach. These predicted
oxygen levels, however, are for average daily oxygen conditions,
and do not take into account diurnal oxygen fluctuations. Data
show daytime values up to 170% of saturation so nighttime levels
could be correspondingly lower, depending upon future levels of
algal activity.
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28
Temperature
There will be no change In the existing temperature regime,
and maximum summer temperatures below Pendleton will continue ,
to range around the mld-70's, with peaks In the 80's.
Nutrients
Concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus are expected to
increase in direct proportion to the growing contribution of
these constituents from municipal and industrial waste effluent,
along with agricultural contributions. Benthic slimes, existent
below Pendleton during the summer now, will probably increase
in the future.
Sediment
The amount of lands devoted to wheat, grazing, and sagebrush
around Pendleton-Hermiston will remain essentially the same. Pre-
suming the existing land management practices persist, the present
sediment and turbidity problems will remain. Only if good con-
servation practices, such as stubble mulching of fallow wheat
lands, are initiated, can the problems be alleviated.
With Basin Development
The modification of flow regime with construction of the
storage proposed in this basin-wide plan will generally benefit
water quality. The increased late summer flows and the possibi-
lity for releases of cool bottom waters from the reservoirs are
the means for this improvement.
Pissolved Oxygen
Predicted August 1980 dissolved oxygen levels with the
planned development in operation are shown on the profile on
Figure 4. Pendleton's treated waste effluent again drives oxygen
levels down from above 8 mg/1 to about 7 mg/1. The different
curve conformations between the "with" and "without" project
conditions derive from the changed pattern of irrigation return
flows. The subsurface portion exerts an immediate influence
upon the dissolved oxygen regime with its zero dissolved oxygen
content. This is especially significant at River Mile 23, where
the river's dissolved oxygen concentration drops to 6 mg/1 and is
roughly sustained at this level to the mouth.
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29
Temperature
Ryan Reservoir will modify the summer temperatures of the
Umatilla River downstream to Pendleton. The stream from Ryan to
Pendleton is generally shallow and broad; thus, the cool reser-
voir releases are rapidly warmed, increasing in temperature by
Pendleton to levels approaching an equilibrium temperature.
Ryan Reservoir is deep, however, and affords a good opportunity
for late summer release of very cool water that will lower
stream temperatures to levels required by the anadromous fisheries
Fortunately, from a temperature standpoint, Beacon Reservoir
releases enter the river just below Pendleton. Beacon can also
retain significant cool water for late summer releases. The
Umatilla River below Beacon is generally deeper than the reaches
above Pendleton, and will warm up to equilibrium conditions at
a slower rate. Thus, the effects of Beacon's cool releases
are retained further downstream.
The period of maximum predicted temperature is mid-August,
when required stream temperatures for optimum anadromous fisheries
are below 66° F. After mid-September, stream temperatures should
not exceed 57° F. for fishery requirements. The predicted
profiles of stream temperatures under three conditions for these
two time periods are shown in Figures 5 and 6.
These predicted temperatures were based upon average
weather conditions imposed upon the 1931 water year runoff,
about a l-in-10 low-flow occurrence. Thus, in an average water
year, the predicted stream temperatures would be somewhat lower
since there would be larger stored flows for temperature control.
Where the profiles are not parallel, the flows are of
different size. Lower flows result in longer travel times and
shallower streamflows, and thus warm more rapidly.
The two profiles should be read together. The low August
temperatures below Beacon for the proposed Bureau flows were
attained at the expense of lower September temperatures. If
the cooler waters are spent in August to overcome the lower
quantity of releases, then that cool water is not available in
September. As can be noted on the profiles, stream temperatures
exceed temperature requirements over most of the stream without
reservoir releases. With Ryan and Beacon operated for irrigation
and fishery quantity releases using two and three levels of
multiple outlets, respectively, temperatures over much of the
river are substantially reduced, but still exceed fishery re-
quirements over certain river reaches. Modification of the
operation of Ryan and Beacon more specifically for temperature
control can further reduce stream temperatures. The temperature
regime in Ryan and Beacon Reservoirs, as well as the recommended
reservoir operation schedule, is shown on Figures 7 and 8.
-------
70°
60°
-to-"
UJ
UJ
UJ
Q
50°-
WATER TEMPERATURE
REQUIREMENT,
Sep 15 to June I '
WATER TEMPERATURE
REQUIREMENT.
June I to Sep 15-
y^.-. JVo Project*
Influence of
Beacon Reservolr-
ui
AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Sept. 11-20 s
Hydrologic Year 1931 a
10 20 30 40 50
UMATILLA RIVER MILE
•60
7O
80
70°
60°
ui
u
UI
o
50°
--.. No Project
\ ~~~— \
WATER. TEMPERATURE
REQUIREMENT.
June I to Sep IS
USBR Flow
(high outlet)
USBR Flo
(low outlet)
Influence of
Beacon Reservoir*
UI
AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Aug. 11-2O
Hydrologic Year 1931
10 2O 3O 4O 50
UMATILLA RIVER MILE
60
7O
8O
]_/ Modified flows refer to releases from the reservoirs
that were changed within physical limits to optimize
downstream temperatures for fishery requirements.
FIGURE 5. STREAM TEMPERATURE PROFILES FROM RYAN DAM TO ECHO, OREGON
-------
70°
U)
ui
UJ
or
o
uj 60*
o
50°
AT PENDLETON, OREGON
No Project Temperatures
WATER TEMPERATURE
REQUIREMENT
fflTemperatures from
BR Scheduled Releases
Temperatures from
Optimized Releases
Note: This represents the most adverse stream
temperature condition in the reach from
Ryan Reservoir to Pendleton. (See Figure 5)
Jun.
Jul.
Aug.
MONTH
Sept.
Oct
70°
en
UJ
ui
LU
O
50°
AT ECHO, OREGON
NATURAL TEMPERATURE
WATER TEMPERATURE
REQUIREMENT
TEMPERATURE WITH RYAN
AND BEACON RESERVOIR
RELEASES OPTIMIZED
Note: This represents the most adverse stream
temperature condition in the reach from
Pendleton to Echo. (See Figure"5)
Jun. "Jul. Aug. Sept.
MONTH
FIGURE 6. UMATILLA RIVER TEMPERATURES
Oct
-------
-2180
Isotherms - °F
Withdrawal Levels
Mar Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb.
MONTH
-20OO
1900
1850
-2180
PROPOSED RULE CURVE
FOR TEMPERATURE
CONTROL
Mar. Apr.
May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. OCT. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb.
MONTH
-2OOO
1900
1850
FIGURE 7. RYAN RESERVOIR - TEMPERATURE PROFILE AND
COMPARISON OF TWO OPERATING SCHEMES
-------
Isotherms - °F
Withdrawal Levels-
-1220
-1210
3. -1200 w
IU
tn
Mar Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. No* Dec. Jan. Feb.
MONTH
60-
50-
< «L
0=30-
o
20
IO-
PROPOSED RULE CURVE
FOR TEMPERATURE
CONTROL
OUTLETS
*5T-
02
r60
50
UJ
o
30 K
CO
20
10
Mar Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec- Jan. Feb.
MONTH
FIGURE 8. BEACON RESERVOIR - TEMPERATURE PROFILE AND
COMPARISON OF TWO OPERATING SCHEMES
1100
1075
1220
1210
1200 Q
UJ
1190 5
1180
1170
1160
1150
1100
1075
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34
An analysis of the requirements for multi-level outlets in
the proposed Ryan and Beacon Reservoirs to achieve stream tempera-
ture control showed that two levels of outlets in Ryan and three
in Beacon are all that are needed. Formerly, it had been con-
sidered necessary to specify four levels of outlets.
The reservoir operation study of the Bureau of Reclamation (BR)
for the period 1928 through 1953 was evaluated to determine, year
by year, the stream lengths in which average daily water tempera-
tures would be under 70" F. During August, the proposed Bureau
operation would result in approximately 10 miles of the 60-mile
river length having water temperatures over 70° F. when averaged
over the period. About 20 miles would have September temperatures
exceeding 60° F. when an average of the period was taken. Under
modified operation, where releases were optimized to achieve tem-
perature requirements, the temperatures of 70° F. and 60° F. would
not be exceeded in all 60 miles in any year.
Surface water temperatures for Ryan and Beacon Reservoir
are plotted in Figure 9>. These show what may be expected for
water contact recreation during the season.
70°
tn
tu
tu
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35
Nutrients
The increased flows will be derived from the headwaters,
and will be relatively low in nutrients. The added flows will
provide dilution of the nutrients contributed by Pendleton, thus
reducing the potential for algal growths when compared to the
without condition. Under current levels of waste treatment
technology and growth of nutrients in sewage, however, the pro-
blems of algae in the stream will persist in the future.
The reservoirs, especially Beacon, will have a potential
for nuisance algal growths. As noted in the Water Quality Require-
ments section, the concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus
that limit algal growth in reservoirs is less than in flowing
streams. Measurements of stream concentrations to date show
existing levels in excess of those theoretical limits. However,
a firm prediction of algal problems cannot be made until more
water quality data is obtained. The primary effects of excessive
algal activity upon the reservoirs would be to aesthetically
degrade the recreation experience on the reservoir and to depress
dissolved oxygen levels, especially near the bottom where the
dead algae would deposit and decay. Release of this lower level
cool water with low oxygen concentrations would have an adverse
effect on stream quality in reaches immediately below the reser-
voir. Accurate prediction of the conditions will allow a proper
planning evaluation by the Recreation and Fishery Agencies and
an appraisal of possible approaches towards minimizing the problem.
Sediment
Installation of the proposed plan will convert around 100,000
acres of dry lands to irrigated cropland. A majority of the
irrigated acreage will be devoted to a permanent cover crop such
as alfalfa, which will nearly eliminate this as a source of
credible soil and somewhat improve the sediment-turbidity problem
in the basin. Still, good land management conservation practices,
including stubble mulching of fallow wheat lands, are necessary
to get at the basic sediment problem in the basin.
The proposed diversion from Snipe Reservoir into Butter
Creek results in a significant sustained increase in flows be-
tween the reservoir and irrigated lands. There is a potential
for serious erosion in the channel under these conditions. The
Bureau has made provision to protect the channel, and it has been
presumed that these measures will be adequate to meet any problems
that may develop.
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EVALUATION
A comparison of water quality with and without project
development shows a general improvement in water quality under
project conditions. Cool reservoir releases during the summer
will significantly lower stream temperatures to the benefit of
the fisheries. Increased flows will reduce nutrient concentra-
tions, thus resulting in less favorable conditions for algal
growth. The additional flows will also generally improve dissolved
oxygen levels, although increased irrigation return flows in one
reach will lower oxygen levels somewhat below the without project
situation. Still, the dissolved oxygen levels will exceed State
water quality standards with the project flows.
The proposed development exerts a specific beneficial effect
by providing increased flows for assimilating Hermiston's treated
waste effluent without oxygen levels being driven below State
standards. Thus, without development of the proposed plan,
Hermiston will be required to select some means of handling
their effluent other than discharge to the river, at an increment
of expense. The flows incidentally provided by the project have
a value equivalent to the "in lieu of" expense of the most likely
alternate means of handling the treatment plant effluent.
It was presumed that DEQ would require Hermiston to not
discharge their treatment plant effluent to the Umatilla River
if the proposed project was not constructed, and that Hermiston
would select land disposal of the effluent as the most economical
method of disposal. An estimate of the added annual cost for
this means of disposal (including capital cost amortized over
20 years at 6%) is $30,000. This estimate was based upon the
assumption that the city would purchase the land and manage it
specifically to receive the effluent to always assure having an
adequate receiving area.
If the project is built, the need for Hermiston to provide
this added facility beyond secondary treatment would be obviated.
Thus, the flows associated with construction of the project
would save a total annual investment of $30,000. The source of
funds for this investment would be a combination of Federal,
State and local. The quality requirement for the river is based
upon, among other uses, the needs of steel head which use the
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38
river. Therefore, the value of the savings from these two stand-
points is widespread. This value represents a benefit to water
quality provided by the project, incidental to the formulated
functions, widespread in application, and should be so recognized
In the final plan. Although the dilution of nutrients with
subsequent reduction of algae growths and improvement of stream
quality will be another incidental benefit of project develop-
ment, a value cannot be assigned to this with available informa-
tion.
The benefits attributable to temperature control are re-
flected in the Fish and Wildlife study and the benefits for
anadromous fish.
Recreation projections and benefits on Snipe, Beacon and
Ryan Reservoirs are based upon adequate quality reservoir water
during the recreation season. As mentioned before, there is a
possibility that algal blooms in Beacon Reservoir may be of
sufficient density to adversely affect swimming. This should
be studied in greater depth following collection of suitable
data in the basin prior to final plan development. Snipe and
Ryan Reservoirs will probably have less dense algal growths, not
adversely affecting recreation.
Analysis of the dissolved oxygen model run showed that the
predicted oxygen levels in the river were quite sensitive to the
subsurface irrigation flows. Reduction of these flows would
thus have a significant beneficial effect on the river quality.
Proper irrigation management such as sprinkler application of
irrigation water and canal lining would noticeably reduce sub-
surface return flows here.
Pendleton and Hermiston waste loads exert a major effect
through addition of organics and nutrients to the stream system.
The long term application of their treated effluent to lands
used .for cover crops such as alfalfa would benefit both the
river quality plus adding to the productive use of the surrounding
lands.
Major recreation development and usage have been projected
for Beacon, Snipe and, to a lesser extent, the other proposed
reservoirs. It has been presumed that adequate facilities will
be installed to collect and handle all wastes associated with
these developments, and that there will be no waste input to the
surface waters.
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As the Nation's principal conservation agency, the Depart-
ment of the Interior has basic responsibilities for water,
fish, wildlife, mineral, land, park, and recreational re-
sources. Indian and Territorial affairs are other major
concerns of America's "Department of Natural Resources."
The Department works to assure the wisest choice in manag-
ing all our resources so each will make its full contribu-
tion to a better United States—now and in the future.
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