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BIG CANYON CREEK STUDY, LEWIS AND NEZ PERCE COUNTIES, IDAHO, 1979
Description:
In the 1979 water year, a water quality study was completed on Big Canyon Creek in Lewis and Nez Perce Counties, Idaho (17060306). The study was conducted to obtain background information for development of effluent limitations for the Cities of Peck and Nezperce and to determine the present water quality status of the stream. The study provided monitoring on 3 mainstem stations, 5 tributary stations, and the City of Nezperce outfall. Parameters included: temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, bacteria, oxygen demand, solids, select ions, nutrients, and trace inorganic toxins. The major water quality problem found on Big Canyon Creek was nutrient concentrations which exceeded recommended algal stimulation levels. Bacteria violations for both primary and secondary contact recreation standards were also noted at 1 station near Reubens. On Long Hollow Creek, several violations of the 6.0 mg/l dissolved oxygen standard were noted directly below the Nezperce outfall, and bacteria violations and extremely high nutrient concentrations were also common. The analysis for Peck indicates that secondary treatment of their domestic wastewater is adequate to protect the lower portion of Big Canyon Creek. With the water quality problems on Long Hollow Creek, the City of Nezperce will need to reduce or eliminate their discharge during periods of extreme low flow. Abnormally low amount of runoff in Water Year 1979 did not provide adequate conditions to evaluate nonpoint sources. 1980. Water Quality Summary No. 14. Department of Health and Welfare, Division of Environment, Boise, ID.