Abstract |
Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)s implementing regulations direct each state to identify and list waters, known as water quality limited segments (WQLSs), in which current required controls of a specified substance are inadequate to achieve water quality standards. For each WQLS, the State is to either establish a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) of the specified substance that the waterbody can receive without violating water quality standards, or demonstrate that water quality standards are being met. The Jones Falls (basin code 02-13-09-04) was identified on the States 1996 list of WQLSs as impaired by nutrients, suspended sediments, zinc, copper, lead and chlordane. This report provides an analysis of recent monitoring data, which shows that the aquatic life criteria and designated uses associated with zinc are being met in the Jones Falls. This analysis supports the conclusion that a TMDL of zinc is not necessary to achieve water quality standards in this case. Barring the receipt of any contradictory data, this report will be used to support the removal of Jones Falls from Marylands list of WQLSs for zinc when MDE proposes the revision of Marylands 303(d) list for public review in the future. The nutrient listing will be addressed separately at a future date. The chlordane impairment was addressed by a TMDL analysis in relation to a fish tissue impairment in Lake Roland. The nutrient, suspended sediment, copper, and lead listings will be addressed separately at a future date. |