Abstract |
Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) 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 Little Gunpowder Falls (basin code 02-13-08-04) was identified on the States 1996 list of WQLSs as impaired by heavy metals and nutrients. This report provides an analysis of recent monitoring data, which shows that the aquatic life criteria and designated uses associated with heavy metals are being met in the Little Gunpowder Falls. |