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WATER QUALITY STATUS REPORT, VINYARD CREEK, JEROME COUNTY, IDAHO. 1986
Description:
During 1986, a survey was done on Vinyard Creek (17040212) to assess water quality conditions and beneficial use impairment due to agricultural pollutants. During the 1986 irrigation season, Vinyard Creek transported an estimated 780 tons of sediment to the Snake River. Most of this sediment was a result of row crop irrigation. Instream inorganic nitrogen and total phosphorous levels met or exceeded limits prior to the irrigation season. During the season, organic nitrogen, total phosphorus, and dissolved orthophosphate levels all increased. Fecal coliform densities exceeding primary contact recreation standard were observed during the irrigation season. Livestock was the predominant source of this contamination. Macroinvertebrate collections from Vinyard Creek indicated degraded water quality conditions. The report recommends that best management practices should receive priority on surface irrigated fields with crops with high erosion potentials (e.g. beans). Best management practices addressing animal waste management should substantially reduce fecal contamination of Vinyard Creek. Litke, R.T. 1989. Water Quality Status Report No. 83. Department of Health and Welfare, Division of Environmental Quality, Water Quality Bureau, Boise, ID. 65 pp.