Abstract |
This document, upon approval by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), establishes a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for bacteria in Wicomico River Headwaters (basin number 02-13-03-04). Section 303(d) of the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA) and the EPAs 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 TMDL for the specified substance that the waterbody can receive without violating water quality standards, or demonstrate that water quality standards are being met. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has identified the Wicomico River Headwaters, a Use I waterbody (Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 26.08.02.08D), in the States 1996 303(d) List as impaired by fecal bacteria, and in the 2004 303(d) as impaired by impacts to biological communities. Johnson Pond, an impoundment within the Wicomico River Headwaters was identified in the States 1996 303(d) List for nutrients and sediments. |