Alaska’s 

Final

2010 Integrated Water 

Quality Monitoring and 

Assessment Report

July 15, 2010

Alaska 

Department of Environmental Conservation
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

iv

Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

Section Page

1 Introduction ...........................................................................................................................................1

The Purpose of the 2010 Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report .................................................1

Assessment Results..................................................................................................................................2

Waterbody Categories..............................................................................................................................3

Alaska’s Approach to Impaired Waterbodies..........................................................................................4

Significant Changes from Alaska’s 2008 Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report........................5

Public Process Overview .........................................................................................................................7

2 Description of Categories and Overview of Assessment Methodology and Results........................8

General Assessment Methods..................................................................................................................8

General Considerations for All Waterbody Categories...........................................................................9

Data Quality Considerations..............................................................................................................9

Data Quantity Considerations............................................................................................................9

Categories and Assessments..................................................................................................................10

Category 1 – WQS Attained for All Uses..........................................................................................10

Category 2 – WQS Attained for Designated Uses............................................................................10

Category 3 – Data or Information Insufficient.................................................................................10

Category 4 – Impaired Waterbody ...................................................................................................14

Category 5 – Impaired Waterbodies on the Section 303(d) List ......................................................16

APPENDIX A Waterbody Categories 2 through 5...........................................................................21

Category 2 Waterbodies.........................................................................................................................22

Category 3 Waterbodies.........................................................................................................................41

Category 4a Waterbodies.......................................................................................................................49

Category 4b Waterbodies.......................................................................................................................61

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies.....................................................................................64

APPENDIX B Waterbodies Removed From the Section 303(d) List..............................................78

APPENDIX C TMDL Schedule and Factors.....................................................................................83

Alaska TMDL Completion Date Schedule (Revised 10/09) .................................................................83

Factors Considered in Alaska’s 2010 TMDL Schedule Revision .........................................................83

APPENDIX D Logic Flow Diagram ...................................................................................................86

APPENDIX E List of Alaska’s Category 5/ Section 303(d) Impaired Waters...............................87

APPENDIX F Alaska Water Quality Management Programs .......................................................90

Alaska Water Quality Standards............................................................................................................90

Alaska’s Clean Water Actions...............................................................................................................92

T able of Contents
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Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

Alaska’s Approach to Water Resources Management......................................................................92

Alaska Water Monitoring and Assessment Strategy .........................................................................93

Alaska’s Aquatic Resource Surveys – Probabilistic Assessments ....................................................94

Nonpoint Source Pollution Program......................................................................................................96

Coastal Nonpoint Source Pollution........................................................................................................98

Point Source Pollution Program ............................................................................................................99

Overall Approach..............................................................................................................................99

Delegation of the Wastewater Permitting Program .......................................................................100

Focus on High-Priority Permits .....................................................................................................100

Enhancement of Compliance ..........................................................................................................100

Provision of Technical Information................................................................................................100

Streamlining of the Permitting Process..........................................................................................100

Protection of Subsurface Wastewater.............................................................................................101

Regulation of Stormwater...............................................................................................................101

Environmental Compliance Program for Commercial Passenger Vessels....................................102

Drinking Water Program................................................................................................................102

Public Water System and Drinking Water Compliance..................................................................102

Drinking Water Protection .............................................................................................................104

Groundwater Protection .................................................................................................................106

Wetlands..........................................................................................................................................109

APPENDIX G Interpretation of the Residues Criterion in Alaska Water Quality Standards for 

Use in Attainment and Impairment Determinations..........................................................................113

RESIDUE CRITERIA .........................................................................................................................113

ZONES OF DEPOSIT.........................................................................................................................115

18 AAC 70.210. ZONES OF DEPOSIT. .........................................................................................115

History of the One-Acre Threshold.................................................................................................116

Background on General Permits for Log Transfer Facilities.........................................................117

Application of Zones of Deposits for Residues to Seafood Processing Facilities ..........................118

Criteria for Waterbody Categories.................................................................................................119

Removal of Waterbodies from the Category 5/Section 303(d) List Determined to Be Impaired from 

Residues ..........................................................................................................................................125

APPENDIX H Alaska Clean Water Actions (ACWA) Priority Ranking .....................................126

APPENDIX I Supplemental Listing Methodology ........................................................................134

Guidance for Determining Water Quality Impairments from Residues..............................................134

Seafood Processing Facilities.........................................................................................................134

Log Transfer Facilities ...................................................................................................................134

Removal of Waterbodies Determined to be Impaired from Residues from the Category 5 List.....135

Guidance for Determining Water Quality Impairments from Turbidity .............................................136

Parameter-Specific Criteria............................................................................................................136

Identification of Natural Conditions...............................................................................................136

Guidance for Determining Water Quality Attainment or Impairment from Pathogens ......................138

Guidance for Determining Water Quality Impairments from Pathogens for Fresh Water Uses ........138
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Minimum Number of Samples.........................................................................................................138

Assessment and Sampling Period ...................................................................................................138

Approach for Determining Attainment or Impairment Caused by Fecal Coliform Bacteria for 

Fresh Water Uses............................................................................................................................139

Guidance for Determining Water Quality Attainment or Impairment from Pathogens for Marine 

Water Uses...........................................................................................................................................139

Minimum Number of Samples.........................................................................................................139

Assessment and Sampling Period ...................................................................................................140

Approach for Determining Attainment or Impairment Caused by Fecal Coliform Bacteria for Marine 

Water Uses...........................................................................................................................................140

Criterion for the ―Harvesting for Consumption of Raw Mollusks or Other Aquatic Life‖ Marine 

Water Use ............................................................................................................................................140

Minimum Number of Samples.........................................................................................................140

Approach for Determining Impairment ..........................................................................................141

Criteria for Marine Water Use for Coastal Recreation Areas (Primary Contact)................................141

Minimum Number of Samples Required for Attainment or Impairment for Coastal Recreation 

Areas...............................................................................................................................................141
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Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

Table Page

Table 1: Alaska Quick Facts........................................................................................................................2

Table 2: Number of Waterbodies.................................................................................................................4

Table F-1 Designated Uses of Fresh Water and Marine Waterbodies in Alaska ..................................90

Table F-2 Estimated Wetland Acreage................................................................................................109

Table F-3 Wetland Assessment Activity.............................................................................................111

Figure Page

Figure 1 Alaska's Impaired Waters & Number of TMDLs Completed for Reporting Interval ............5

Figure D-1 Logic Flow Diagram for Making Category Determinations.................................................86

Figure F-1 Location Map........................................................................................................................95

Figure F-2 Groundwater Uses...............................................................................................................107

Figure F-3 Distribution of Community & Nontransient/Noncommunity Public Water Systems in 

Alaska Using Groundwater.................................................................................................108

L ist of Figures

L ist of Tables
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Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

 ist of Abbreviations and Acronyms L

μg/L micrograms per liter 

AAC Alaska Administrative Code

ACWA Alaska Clean Water Actions

ADF&G Alaska Department of Fish and Game

APDES Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 

ARWA Alaska Rural Water Association 

ATTF Alaska Timber Task Force 

BEACH Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health 

BMP best management practice

BOD5 5-day biochemical oxygen demand

BTEX benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes

DEC Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation

CBS City and Borough of Sitka 

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act

cfs cubic feet per second

cm centimeter

CWA Clean Water Act

CWS Community Water System

CZARA Coastal Zone Act Reauthorization Amendments 

DNR Alaska Department of Natural Resources

DO dissolved oxygen

DRO diesel-range organics
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Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

DWP Drinking Water Protection 

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

FC fecal coliform

GP General Permit 

GPS global positioning system

GRO gasoline-range organics

LTF log transfer facility

LSA log storage area

MCL maximum contaminant level

mgd million gallons per day

ml milliliter

NCA National Coastal Assessment

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

NPS National Park Service

NTNCWS Non-transient, Non-community Water System

PAH polynuclear or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

PCB polychlorinated biphenyl

PWS public water system

PWSS Public Water System Supervision

QAPP quality assurance project plan

ROD record of decision

SDWA Safe Drinking Water Act

SDWIS Safe Drinking Water Information System

SFY State Fiscal Year
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SPAR DEC’s Division of Spill Planning and Response

STORET STOrage and RETrieval, an EPA environmental database

SVE soil vapor extraction

TAH total aromatic hydrocarbon

TCE trichloroethylene

TDS total dissolved solids

TMDL total maximum daily load

TNCWS Transient Non-community Water System

TOC total organic carbon

TSAIA Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport 

TSS total suspended sediment

UIC underground injection control

USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

USF&WS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

USFS U.S. Forest Service

USGS U.S. Geological Survey

WFLHD Western Federal Lands and Highway Division 

WPMP Wellhead Protection Management Plan

WQS water quality standards

WSA Wadeable Streams Assessment

ZOD Zone of Deposit
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1 Introduction

The Purpose of the 2010 Integrated Water Quality Assessment 

Report

The Clean Water Act (CWA) mandates that each state develop a program to monitor and report on the 

quality of its surface and groundwaters and prepare a report describing the status of its water quality. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) then compiles and summarizes the information and 

sends this information in a report to Congress. The process for developing information on the quality of 

the nation’s water resources is contained in several sections of the CWA. Most prominent are Section 

305(b), which requires that the quality of all waterbodies be characterized, and Section 303(d) which 

requires that states list any waterbodies that do not meet water quality standards (WQS). The Alaska 

WQS are documented in Title 18, Chapter 70, of the Alaska Administrative Code (18 AAC 70). EPA has 

recommended that the Section 305(b) reports and the Section 303(d) list of impaired waters be 

integrated into a single, comprehensive monitoring and assessment report, the Integrated Water Quality 

Monitoring and Assessment Report (Integrated Report).

This integrated approach allows each state to identify any water quality problems, develop remediation 

plans, and ultimately, achieve WQS in all of its waters. The Alaska Department of Environmental 

Conservation (DEC) considers the Integrated Report an important tool for understanding the health of 

Alaska’s waters and identifying actions that can be taken to improve water quality in Alaska. Water 

quality information is one component that contributes to the efforts and priorities under the Alaska 

Clean Water Actions (ACWA) initiative, a much broader and more comprehensive assessment that 

includes water quality, water quantity, and aquatic habitat. More detailed descriptions of the ACWA 

initiative and its process for assessing information and establishing waterbody priorities are available in 

Section 2 and Appendix F.

The 2010 Integrated Report is a statewide water quality assessment. It describes whether the existing 

condition of each Alaska waterbody is sufficient to maintain multiple designated uses of that waterbody. 

Alaska WQS designate seven uses for fresh waters (drinking water; agriculture; aquaculture; industrial;

contact recreation; non-contact recreation; and growth and propagation of fish, shellfish, other aquatic 

life, and wildlife) and seven uses for marine waters (aquaculture; seafood processing; industrial; contact 

recreation; non-contact recreation; growth and propagation of fish, shellfish, other aquatic life, and 

wildlife; and harvesting raw mollusks or other raw aquatic life for human consumption). Sources of 

information used by DEC to develop the biannual water quality assessment include monitoring data

(e.g., water testing), professional knowledge, and evaluations such as those provided by water resource 

managers, fish and wildlife biologists, and aquatic biologists.

This Integrated Report fulfills the CWA Section 305(b) requirement that each state provide a 

comprehensive report of water quality to EPA. The report documents a comprehensive evaluation of the 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

1. Introduction—Purpose and Approach

2

status and health of each waterbody in the State of Alaska and describes state programs for maintaining 

or improving the quality of Alaska’s waters.

In addition, this report describes the process for evaluating whether waterbodies attain WQS or are 

impaired (polluted). This process includes classifying each waterbody according to five categories, 

depending on their health; determining which waterbodies need further action; scheduling when each 

impaired waterbody will be addressed; involving the public in determining how water quality will be 

addressed; and determining how waterbodies are removed from the impaired waterbody list.

DEC water quality programs are described in Appendix F.

Assessment Results

Alaska is rich in water quantity, water quality, and aquatic resources; almost half of the total surface 

waters of the United States are located within the state. Because of the size, sparse population, and 

remote character of Alaska, the vast majority of its water resources are in pristine condition. More than 

99.9% of Alaska’s waters are considered unimpaired. Among the state’s vast water resources are more 

than 3 million lakes, 714,000 miles of streams and rivers, 44,000 miles of coastline, and approximately 

174,683,900 acres of wetlands. Less than 0.1% of these water resources have been identified as 

impaired. Historically, Alaska’s water quality individual assessments have focused on areas with known 

or suspected water quality impairments. Appendix A provides detailed information about the individual 

assessments and Appendix F provides information about the probalistic assessment program. The table 

below provides information about Alaska. 

Table 1: Alaska Quick Facts

Atlas – Topic Value Value

State population 686,000 a

State surface area (square miles) 656,425 

Total miles of rivers and streams 714,004

Number of lakes/reservoirs/ponds 3,000,000+

Acres of lakes/reservoirs/ponds 12,787,200

Miles of coastal shoreline 44,000

Wetland Acreages b

Palustrine –non-tidal: muskegs, bogs, forested wetlands, tundra, 

open water

172,503,400

Estuarine—bays, salt marshes, beaches 2,131,900

Marine intertidal—ocean shoreline 48,600

Total wetland acres 174,683,900

Notes:

a. US Census Bureau National and State Population Estimates, September 2009 http://www.census.gov/popest/states/NST-annest.html

b. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Cowardin Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitat, 1979

In Alaska, surface fresh water supplies three-fourths of water needed for industry, agriculture, mining, 

fish processing, and public water use and is used for about half of the domestic water supply. Alaska’s 

surface waters include more than 15,000 salmon streams, an important resource for Alaskans and the 

world. Alaska also has the largest groundwater resources of any state. 
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1. Introduction—Purpose and Approach

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Alaska is sparsely populated, having approximately 686,000 residents (approximately one resident per 

square mile). Urban development is concentrated in a few main population centers, and the majority of 

people live in Southcentral Alaska. The 2007-2008 U.S. Census showed population increased since the 

previous census in most areas of the state. Almost 50% of the state’s population lives in the Municipality 

of Anchorage in Southcentral Alaska. The other major population centers are Juneau, the state capital, in 

Southeast Alaska, and Fairbanks in Interior Alaska. Communities outside these major population centers 

tend to be small and generally not connected by roads. 

As population grows and the natural resource-based economy expands in Alaska, an increasing number 

of state waters, especially in urban areas, face the threat of degradation. In specific localized parts of 

Alaska, surface water quality has been impaired. Waters in urban settings (cities, towns, and villages) 

are predominantly impaired from sediment, turbidity, and fecal coliform (FC) bacteria contamination 

caused by urban and stormwater runoff. Other sources of impairment are sediment and turbidity from 

mining activities in Interior Alaska, residues from seafood processing facilities in coastal zones, 

contaminated military sites in Southcentral and Southwest Alaska, and bark and wood residues from 

timber processing and transfer facilities in coastal Southeast Alaska. Petroleum products, such as oil 

spills or fuel leaks, are also sources of impairment within the state. 

Waterbody Categories

Generally, waterbodies are assigned to categories by the degree to which water quality goals are 

attained. The five categories and three subcategories are described below:

Category 1. All WQS for all designated uses are attained.

Category 2. Some WQS for the designated uses are attained, but data and information to 

determine whether the WQS for the remaining uses are attained are insufficient or absent.

Category 3. Data or information is insufficient to determine whether the WQS for any 

designated uses are attained.

Category 4. The waterbody is determined to be impaired but does not need a total maximum 

daily load (TMDL).

o Category 4a. An established and EPA-approved TMDL exists for the impaired water.

o Category 4b. Requirements from other pollution controls have been identified to meet 

WQS for the impaired water.

o Category 4c. Failure to meet a water quality standard for the impaired water is not 

caused by a pollutant; instead, the impairment is caused by a source of pollution such as 

nuisance aquatic plants, degraded habitat, or a dam that affects flow.

Category 5. WQS for one or more designated uses are not attained and the waterbody requires a 

TMDL or recovery plan. Category 5 waters are those waters identified on the Section 303(d) list 

of impaired waters.

The following table summarizes the number of waterbodies in each category as determined by the

evaluation of existing and readily available water quality data and information reviewed for this draft 

2010 Integrated Report.
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1. Introduction—Purpose and Approach

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Table 2: Number of Waterbodies

Category Number of Waterbodies

1 Majority of Alaskan waters

2 44

3 304

4a 33

4b 4

4c 0

5 28

Alaska’s Approach to Impaired Waterbodies

Alaska’s process for listing an individual waterbody for failure to meet WQS, as required in the CWA 

Section 303(d), begins with an internal review of existing and new information to determine (1) the 

presence of pollutants, (2) whether persistent exceedances of WQS are occurring, (3) whether impacts 

on the designated uses are occurring, and (4) the degree to which WQS and the other criteria are 

attained. The specific criteria used for evaluation and listing of waterbodies associated with residue 

discharges from log transfer or seafood processing facilities are found in Appendixes G and I. 

When a waterbody is placed on the Section 303(d) list, a TMDL or recovery plan is developed, unless 

data obtained after the listing indicate that the waterbody is no longer impaired or other measures are 

undertaken to restore the waterbody. State of Alaska waterbodies on the Section 303(d) list are 

scheduled for development of a TMDL (see Appendix C) or waterbody recovery plan between now and 

2014. Specific criteria apply for delisting of impaired waterbodies in Section 2, and Appendices G and I. 

When a TMDL or waterbody recovery plan is developed, a public process is initiated. As part of the 

process, the public is notified of the document and can comment on it. 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

1. Introduction—Purpose and Approach

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Figure 1 Alaska's Impaired Waters & Number of TMDLs Completed for Reporting Interval

Significant Changes from Alaska’s 2008 Integrated Water Quality 

Assessment Report

This 2010 Integrated Report documents the following water quality impairment changes from the 2008 

Integrated Report:

Addition of nine new impairments to the Section 303(d) list of impaired waters (Category 5):

o Coffman Cove Creeks – consisting of five creeks, impaired from cadmium, copper, iron, 

manganese, nickel, and zinc.

o Cottonwood Creek –7 miles of the creek impaired from FC bacteria.

o Kuskokwim River – 1000 feet of the river near confluence with Red Devil Creek 

impaired from antimony, arsenic, and mercury.

o Red Devil Creek – 0.5 miles of the creek impaired from antimony, arsenic, and mercury.

o Salt Chuck Bay – impaired from copper

48

31

56

51

58

48

34 33

25

28

10

14

24

37 37 37 37

61

72 71 71 70

62 65

0 0 1

10

4

9 10

3

1

4

1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2003 2004 2006 2008 2010

Alaska's Impaired Waters & Number of 

TMDLs Completed for Reporting Interval

Category 5 Section 303(d) Listed Impaired 

Waters

Category 4a and 4b Waters with Pollution 

Controls Identified

Total Impaired Waters (Category 4a+4b+5)

TMDLs Completed for Section 303(d) Listed 

Waters during Reporting Interval
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

1. Introduction—Purpose and Approach

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Five waters now attaining WQS: 

o Caribou Creek – The water is meeting the turbidity standard.

o Iliuliuk Bay – The water is meeting the petroleum hydrocarbons standard.

o Jewel Lake – The water is meeting the FC bacteria standard.

o Kenai River – The water is meeting the petroleum hydrocarbons standard.

o Nakwasina River – The water is meeting the turbidity and sediment standards.

Four impaired waters now under a plan: 

o Jordan Creek – A TMDL has been developed for sediment and dissolved oxygen (DO).

o Klag Bay – A TMDL has been developed for metals.

o Noyes Slough – A TMDL has been developed for residues; the waterbody remains 

impaired from sediment and petroleum hydrocarbons.

o Pullen Creek – A TMDL has been developed for metals.

Six modifications of waters with impairments:

o Cottonwood Creek – This water is no longer impaired from residues; however, 7 miles of 

the creek are being listed for FC bacteria.

o Chena River – This water is no longer impaired from petroleum hydrocarbons; it remains 

listed for sediment.

o Chena Slough – This water is no longer impaired from petroleum hydrocarbons; it 

remains listed for sediment

o Dutch Harbor – Most of the water has been found to be meeting WQS, but areas of 

impairment still exist.

o Hood/Spenard Lakes – This water is no longer impaired from FC bacteria; it remains 

impaired from low DO.

o Ward Cove – This water is no longer impaired from sediment toxicity; it remains 

impaired for residues.

New listing and assessment methodology has been proposed for pathogens. No impairment 

determinations based on this new methodology were made in this 2010 report. The new listing and 

assessment methodology proposed for pathogens does not change the FC bacteria standard within 

Alaska’s WQS (in 18 AAC 70); however, it does provide direction for implementing the standard when 

making water quality attainment or impairment determinations.

Other broader changes reflected in the 2010 report include the following:

Six new waterbodies are reported in Category 3 because waters were added to the DEC water 

quality assessment database, which now identifies 303 Category 3 waterbodies.

Narratives were updated based on existing and readily available information. Updates to 

Category 4a waterbody narratives were completed to describe development of TMDLs.

ACWA waterbody priority rankings are included in Appendix H.

Some descriptions of water quality management programs were updated in Appendix F.
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Public Process Overview

DEC has an open, ongoing solicitation for water quality data and information. To solicit ACWA

waterbody nominations, DEC coordinates a continuous effort among state resource agencies. During the 

preparation and development of Alaska’s 2010 Integrated Report, DEC actively solicited readily 

available and existing water quality data and information for use in preparing the report.

DEC posted a public notice solicitation for existing and readily available water quality data and 

information from August 3 to September 18, 2009. A 30-day public review and comment of the draft 

2010 Integrated Report was provided from February 26, 2010, to March 30, 2010.

DEC considered public comments on the public notice draft of the report and made necessary changes to 

the final report. DEC prepared a responsiveness summary on the public comments received on the draft 

report and information received during the solicitation.
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2 Description of Categories and 

Overview of Assessment Methodology and 

Results

This section of the Integrated Report describes the process used by the State of Alaska to evaluate the 

nature, health, and status of waterbodies. This evaluation process includes assigning waterbodies into 

five categories, depending on their health; determining which waterbodies need further action; 

scheduling when each polluted or impaired waterbody will be addressed; and involving the public in 

determining how waterbodies will be addressed. (Figure D-1, Logic Flow Diagram for Making Category 

Determinations, in Appendix D portrays the logic of assigning waterbodies to categories.) 

Section 303(d) requires a list of impaired waterbodies that are not expected to meet standards without 

additional controls. Section 303(d) requires that for waterbodies found to be impaired or polluted, a 

TMDL must be conducted and implemented. Alternatively, a waterbody recovery plan can be developed 

and the water is placed in Category 4b. Many Section 303(d) listed waters have not undergone 

comprehensive water quality assessments to determine the extent of water quality impairment or 

whether existing controls are adequate to achieve the standards. DEC closely scrutinizes waterbodies to 

determine whether suspected water quality violations or persistent exceedances of WQS have been 

thoroughly investigated and documented. Careful review by DEC is intended to prevent the listing of 

waterbodies with inconclusive or circumstantial data or solely on the basis of observation. 

General Assessment Methods

DEC actively solicits all existing and readily available water quality data and information in accordance 

with EPA guidance. The information gathered is not limited to waters for which water quality problems 

have been reported by local, state, or federal agencies; members of the public; or academic institutions. 

Organizations and groups are contacted for research they may be conducting or reporting. University 

researchers, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

(NOAA), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USF&WS) are

examples of such sources of field data.

DEC actively accepts and solicits water quality data and information on a continuous basis. 

Additionally, formal public notice that such information is sought is made every 2 years as part of 

developing the Integrated Report.

DEC considers and evaluates data and information from a wide range of sources, such as those listed 

below:

Previous reports prepared to satisfy CWA Sections 305(b), 303(d), and 314 and any updates
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

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Reports of ambient water quality data, including those prepared as part of state ambient water 

quality monitoring programs, complaint investigations, information generated by the public 

and other sources that provide readily available data (e.g., STORET, an EPA environmental 

database), and data and information provided in public comments

Reports of dilution calculations or predictive models

Water quality management plans

Records of decision (RODs) for Superfund (contaminated) sites

Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) source water assessments

In addition to these conventional sources of data, DEC also considers water quality data and information 

from citizen volunteer monitoring networks.

General Considerations for All Waterbody Categories

The following subsections describe data quality and quantity considerations addressed by DEC when 

evaluating a water for inclusion on or removal from the Section 303(d) list of impaired waters (Category 

5) or in making an attainment determination.

Data Quality Considerations

DEC considers whether typical elements of a quality assurance project plan (QAPP) are submitted for 

water quality data and information. A QAPP checklist for sampling, a QAPP review checklist, and a 

description of elements that characterize a good QAPP are available on the DECs web site at 

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/wqapp/wqapp_index.htm.

Water quality data and information that is collected and submitted without a QAPP or that uses a QAPP 

for which the level of confidence is weak will not be relied on to make an impairment determination. 

Such data and information may only be considered as ancillary information to support an attainment or 

impairment determination.

Data Quantity Considerations

Adequate data quantity is necessary to make well-grounded attainment and impairment decisions. 

Assessments based on larger sample sets are preferred because they are more likely to yield accurate 

conclusions than assessments based on smaller sample sets.

Enough data or information should be available to indicate that standards are or are not exceeded, or that 

uses are or are not impaired, and that such measurements are representative of the waterbody.
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2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

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Categories and Assessments

Category 1 – WQS Attained for All Uses

Waterbodies are placed in this category if data are available to support a determination that all WQS are 

attained.

Criteria Used to Classify a Waterbody as Category 1

The majority of Alaska’s waters are not subject to man-caused stressors and are considered unimpaired. 

DEC expects that 99.9% of Alaska’s waters can be classified as Category 1; however, no specific waters 

are identified in this category.

Category 2 – WQS Attained for Designated Uses

Waterbodies are placed in this category if some of the WQS for the designated uses are attained.

Waterbodies are placed in Category 2 if data and information are available to support a determination 

that some, but not all, uses are attained and if the attainment status for the remaining uses is unknown 

because there is insufficient or no data or information. These waters are presumed to be attaining all 

uses. Monitoring should be scheduled for these waters to determine whether the uses previously found to 

be in attainment remain in attainment and to determine the attainment status of those uses for which data 

and information were previously insufficient to make a determination. The 44 waterbodies assigned to

Category 2 are identified in Appendix A.

Criteria Used to Classify a Waterbody as Category 2

Waterbodies that have been previously identified as impaired but are now attaining a water quality 

standard are placed in this category. Examples are waters for which a TMDL or other pollution controls 

have been implemented or for which recent monitoring data support a determination that the water 

quality standard is attained.

Waterbodies associated with residue discharges are also placed in Category 2 if recent dive survey 

reports show that WQS are attained and have continued to be attained.

Waterbodies that were determined to be impaired from residues and listed as Category 5 but have a 

documented continuous coverage of residues of less than 1.0 acre are also placed in Category 2 and are 

identified in Appendix A.

Category 3 – Data or Information Insufficient

Waterbodies are placed in Category 3 if data or information are insufficient to determine whether the 

WQS are attained for any of the designated uses. 

An additional seven waterbodies have been identified for placement in Category 3 since the 2008

Integrated Report. The 304 Category 3 waterbodies are identified in Appendix A. 
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Criteria Used to Classify Waterbodies as Category 3

Alaska’s water resources include more than 3 million lakes larger than 5 acres in size, 714,004 miles of 

rivers and streams, more than 175 million acres of fresh water wetlands, and 44,000 miles of coastal 

shoreline. Because of the size of its water resources, Alaska has insufficient, inadequate, or little to no 

data or information to support attainment or impairment determinations for many waterbodies. DEC 

expects that the majority of these waters would be assigned to Category 1—waters attaining standards 

for all uses—if it had information available to assess them. 

Category 3 includes waters DEC formerly called ―open files‖ and waters nominated for assessment 

through the ACWA process of Alaska’s three resource agencies: DEC, Alaska Department of Fish and 

Game (ADF&G), and Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Actions that trigger opening a 

file can include nomination from the public, a public complaint, a newspaper report, or more rigorous 

information such as water quality reports or assessments. For many of these waters, definitive water 

quality data or information to determine whether water uses are being attained or impaired is lacking, 

scant, spotty, or outdated. Many of these waters have been brought to the attention of Alaska’s state 

resource agencies for suspected pollution or for impairment of water quantity or fish habitat. DEC 

maintains files on some of these waterbodies, and the information is available upon request.

Some circumstances under which a water may be assigned to Category 3 are identified below:

The data and information were collected using unacceptable quality assurance/quality 

controls and could not be used to provide an accurate assessment.

The quantity of the existing and readily available data and information is inadequate to 

provide an accurate assessment.

The existing and readily available data and information are not representative of current 

conditions of the waterbody. Examples of conditions that might have altered current 

conditions are (1) significant land use changes occurred in the watershed affecting the 

hydrology and nonpoint loadings, (2) point source discharges were removed or new 

discharges are now operating, (3) Alaska made significant changes in applicable data 

collection methodologies, or (4) sampling station locations did not reflect the character of the 

waterbody segment.

The ACWA Process

Through the ACWA process, DEC, DNR, and ADF&G work together to focus state and federal 

resources on addressing issues of water quality, water quantity, and aquatic habitat for the waters with 

the greatest need. These cooperating agencies have developed a waterbody nomination and ranking 

process that relies on established criteria to identify priorities for assessment, stewardship, and 

corrective action needs. The process addresses waters affected by these and other problems: presence or 

risk of pollution, habitat degradation, and quantity problems. Several components of ACWA are 

interwoven and occur concurrently. 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

12

Determination About Future Actions

The entire ACWA process (consisting of the integrated components) is conducted in three phases: 

nomination, analysis, and action. During the nomination phase, each waterbody nominated by the 

public, agencies, or both is reviewed. Information identifying the waterbody is entered into the ACWA 

database. The nominator may be asked for additional information. 

The ACWA database uses four tracks to identify the nominated waterbodies: Data Collection and 

Monitoring, Adequately Protected Waterbodies, Waterbody Recovery, and Protect and Maintain 

Waterbodies at Risk. Identification of the applicable track is an ongoing process and is affected by 

evaluations, analysis, and ranking, as well as receipt of additional data and information. Therefore, new 

knowledge or decisions may lead to placement of the waterbody in a different track. For example, 

during the analysis and action phases, the identification of additional data needs may result in the 

waterbody being reassigned to the Data Collection and Monitoring track.

Waterbodies for which data are not sufficient to suggest a current or anticipated problem are placed in 

the Data Collection and Monitoring track. The waterbodies for which sufficient and credible data are 

available and for which those data suggest existence of a current water quality, water quantity, or aquatic 

habitat problem or the likelihood of future problems are subject to additional evaluation. Those further 

evaluations assess the effectiveness of agency stewardship and determine the persistence of standard 

exceedances or of regulation violations. Many of these waterbodies are entered in the Protect and 

Maintain Waterbodies at Risk or Waterbody Recovery database tracks. 

The determination about future actions primarily considers whether the water is at risk, in need of 

recovery, or adequately protected. The determination is used by the agencies to identify actions needed 

for a particular water.

Waterbodies that are at risk and waterbodies needing recovery are addressed as follows during the action 

phase:

Priorities for action on individual waterbodies are established.

Protection or recovery actions are identified and implemented.

The success of protection/recovery actions and directing the waterbody for additional 

information, continued monitoring, or additional protection/recovery actions is evaluated. 

Finally, waterbodies that are determined to be adequately protected are placed in the Adequately 

Protected waterbodies track.

Analysis of Data

During the analysis phase, a successfully nominated waterbody undergoes a series of determinations 

using established criteria to assess the adequacy and credibility of the associated data available for the 

waterbody. This step is called a ―sufficient and credible data review.‖ Tables used to assist in reviewing 

the rigor of the data and information associated with each water and to score each water are available at 

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/acwa/pdfs/su.pdf.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

13

In scoring waters for sufficient and credible data, three topics are considered: Data Content, Data 

Coverage, and Data Quality. Parameters addressed under Data Content evaluate how sufficiently and 

completely the information contained in the nomination describes the nature and extent of the identified 

issue. Parameters addressed under Data Coverage and Data Quality evaluate the quality of the 

information provided and how rigorous it is.

Data Content scoring considers the basis for the assessment of use attainment, the land use information 

available for the water, information on the expected reference condition, information on the source or 

sources of pollution, and the availability of photographs showing the condition of the water. The 

objective is to identify whether the available data are sufficient to identify the existence or extent of a 

current or potential problem.

Data Coverage scoring considers the number of locations and seasonal information available. Data 

Quality scoring considers adequacy of the quality assurance and quality control for the information, 

whether sampling protocols were documented, and how relevant and current the information is. 

Nearly all of the Category 3 waters identified in this Integrated Report have gone through the sufficient 

and credible data step in the ACWA process. A small number of waters at any given time are placed in a 

―pending‖ status until the water quality information and data associated with the water undergo a 

sufficient and credible data review step.

Creation of the ACWA Priority Ranking

In addition to the analysis of data and overall determination of future actions for the watershed, the 

waterbodies are ranked to establish priorities. The waterbody ranking enables agencies to focus 

resources on the most important priorities. Criteria were developed to assign a numeric value that 

identifies relative priority to each successfully nominated waterbody, resulting in the ACWA Priority 

Ranking. 

Six factors are used to score each of three components: water quantity, water quality, and aquatic 

habitat. The six factors are as follows:

Allocation, or the extent to which the water has been obligated for various uses

Condition

Protection

Future use

Present use

Value 

Evaluation for each of the six factors results in relevant scoring for each component. The possible scores 

are high (5), medium (3), or lower (1).

Staff from one of the three resource agencies review readily available information and data related to a 

given waterbody and use their best professional judgment to assign a factor rating. The agency with 

statutory or regulatory authority over the water resource component is responsible for assessing that 

component. The following considerations guide the ranking decisions: (1) the statutory criteria, 

(2) severity of pollution, and (3) expected uses of the waters, according to CWA Section 303(d)(1)(A). 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

14

The DNR hydrologists provide factor ratings for water quantity; biologists in the ADF&G provide 

aquatic habitat factor ratings; and DEC provides water quality ratings. Appendix H provides ranking for 

each waterbody. More detailed information on the ranking process is available online at

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/acwa/acwa_ranking.htm.

Distinctions for the ACWA Process and Listing of Waters by Category

For the ACWA process and the categorization or listing of waters in the Integrated Report, two 

important points should be noted:

The process for the Integrated Report listing decisions is different from the process used for 

ACWA ranking and priorities. An impairment listing is considered in the ACWA process,

and most waters that are listed as impaired under Categories 5 and 4 are ranked as high 

priority by the ACWA process. In other words, the Integrated Report plays a role in the 

ACWA prioritization process. ACWA does not drive the listing decision; it provides 

information management and helps with identifying and implementing actions that will 

remove impairments.

One component of the ACWA process is an analysis of whether sufficient and credible 

information exists. This analysis is only used for ACWA prioritization for further action; it

does not determine whether data are sufficient for a use in an attainment decision. The 

criteria used for attainment and listing decisions are discussed under the "Criteria Used to 

Classify a Waterbody as Category 5" section of this report.

Category 4 – Impaired Waterbody

Category 4 waters have been determined to be impaired but do not need a TMDL. The three 

subcategories of Category 4 waters are discussed below.

Category 4a – TMDL Has Been Completed

An impaired water that was previously listed in Category 5 but for which a TMDL has been completed 

and approved by EPA is assigned to this category.

For waterbodies that have been placed in this category, a TMDL addressing a specific impairment has 

been developed and approved by EPA. It is expected that implementation of that TMDL will result in

full attainment of the WQS applicable for that specific impairment. If the waterbody has another 

impairment, the waterbody will also be assigned to Category 5 until a TMDL has been developed and 

approved for that impairment.

Monitoring should be scheduled for Category 4a waters to verify that the WQS have been met after 

implementation of the water quality management actions needed to achieve one or more TMDLs.

33 TMDLs have been developed for 32 waterbodies and are identified for placement in Category 4a are 

described in Appendix A.

Criteria Used to Classify a Waterbody as Category 4a

The key criterion for Category 4a is a completed and approved TMDL.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

15

Category 4b – Other Pollution Control Requirements Are Reasonably Expected to 

Result in Attainment of the Water Quality Standard in a Reasonable Period of 

Time 

Waters are placed in this category when other pollution control requirements required by a local, state, 

or federal authority are stringent enough to achieve any WQS applicable to such waters. These pollution 

control requirements should specifically apply to the particular water quality problem. 

Monitoring should be scheduled for these waters to verify that the WQS will be attained as expected.

The four waterbodies identified for placement in Category 4b are shown in Appendix A.

Criteria Used to Classify a Waterbody as Category 4b

For waterbodies placed in Category 4b, controls and assurances are sufficiently stringent that the 

waterbody is expected to meet standards in a reasonable time period. The following are examples of 

pollution controls: 

An approved state or federal ROD associated with a state or federally approved cleanup 

action for a contaminated site

An approved remediation plan for a permitted facility, such as a log transfer facility (LTF), 

reporting more than 1.5 acres of continuous residue coverage 

A National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit that incorporates 

TMDL-type controls for the permitted facility

A water-quality based permit with controls or assurances that water quality goals will be met

Restoration, remediation, or recovery measures or plans with controls and assurances that are 

sufficiently stringent to assure that water quality goals will be attained within a reasonable 

time period

Key factors that must be considered before placing a waterbody in Category 4b are as follows:

The need for pollution controls or measures

Whether requirements and controls are sufficiently stringent that standards can be expected 

to be met in a reasonable time period

Assurances that the requirements and controls will be implemented in a reasonable time 

period

Placing a water in Category 4b requires EPA approval and the development of a Category 4b rationale 

that must address the following six elements:

1. Identification of impaired segment and statement of problem causing the impairment

2. Description of pollution controls and how they will achieve WQS

3. An estimate or projection of the time when WQS will be met

4. Schedule for implementing pollution controls

5. Monitoring plan to track effectiveness of pollution controls
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

16

6. Commitment to revise pollution controls as necessary

Determining whether to place a waterbody in Category 4b requires the application of best professional 

judgment and agency enforcement discretion. This approach includes discussion and analysis of a 

variety of factors such as pollutant characteristics (for instance, consideration of the magnitude,

frequency, and duration of the pollution event or events), pollutant sources, size of the waterbody, the 

stringency of the requirements or assurances, and the degree of recovery response required.

Waterbodies associated with residue discharges also are placed in Category 4b if the following 

conditions are met: (1) two or more dive survey reports from LTFs document more than 1.5 acres of 

continuous residues coverage and (2) the waterbody is addressed in an approved remediation plan under 

the LTF General Permit (GP) or under an individual state wastewater discharge permit. (Information on 

remediation plans is provided in Appendix G.) Waterbodies that are under EPA compliance orders for 

seafood residue violations may also be considered for placement in Category 4b if compliance with the 

order ensures that the water will attain the water quality standard for the residues in a reasonable time 

period. 

Category 4c – Impairment Is Not Caused By a Pollutant

Waterbodies are placed in this category if the impairment is not caused by a pollutant affecting water 

quality. An example of an impairment with a cause other than water quality is degraded riparian habitat. 

Category 4c waterbodies should be considered for monitoring to confirm no pollutant-caused 

impairment is present and to support water quality management actions necessary to address the cause

or causes of the impairment.

No Category 4c waterbodies are currently identified; however, Alaska’s resource agencies use this 

category to track waterbodies with non-pollutant impairments.

Criteria Used to Classify a Waterbody as Category 4c

Alaska has not adopted specific criteria or standards to identify any impairments not related to water 

quality. ACWA priority rankings identify aquatic habitat or water quantity waters for action, but these 

waters are not referred to as ―impaired‖ because they are not impaired in terms of water quality. 

Category 5 – Impaired Waterbodies on the Section 303(d) List

Waterbodies are placed in Category 5 if one or more WQS (in 18 AAC 70) are not attained. Waters are 

also placed in Category 5 if the waterbody is impaired for at least one designated use and a TMDL or 

waterbody recovery plan to attain applicable WQS is required.

The 28 waterbodies identified for placement in Category 5 and on the Section 303(d) list are described

in Appendix A.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

17

Criteria Used to Classify a Waterbody as Category 5

The Alaska listing methodology for determining impairments from turbidity, pathogens, and residues is 

described in Appendix I.

Waterbodies in Category 5 constitute the CWA Section 303(d) list of waters impaired by one or more 

pollutants and for which applicable TMDLs are needed. A waterbody is listed in this category if 

application of Alaska’s assessment and listing methodology finds that a pollutant has caused 

impairment. According to CWA Section 303(d) and EPA’s implementing regulations, Section 303(d)-

designated waters include impaired surface waters that do not or are not anticipated to meet applicable 

WQS solely through the implementation of existing technology-based or similar controls. In Alaska, 

these waterbodies are priority-ranked based on the severity of the pollution, the feasibility of 

implementing a waterbody recovery plan, and other factors. The development of a TMDL or equivalent 

waterbody recovery plan for these waterbodies is scheduled 8 to 13 years into the future from the time 

they are first placed on the Section 303(d) list.

Impaired waterbodies are surface waters with documentation of actual or imminent persistent 

exceedances of water quality criteria, adverse impacts to designated uses, or both, as defined in Alaska

WQS. Designation of a waterbody as impaired does not necessarily indicate that the entire waterbody is 

affected. In most cases, only a segment of the waterbody is affected. When possible, the assessment 

process identifies the specific segment that is impaired and the corresponding pollutant parameters of 

concern. 

The term ―persistent‖ is key to determining whether a surface waterbody is impaired. Determining 

persistent exceedances of WQS is a waterbody-specific decision that requires the application of best 

professional judgment. This approach includes discussion and analysis of a variety of factors such as

pollutant characteristics (for instance, consideration of the magnitude, frequency, and duration of the 

pollution event or events); pollutant sources; size of the waterbody; and the degree of remediation 

response required.

DEC makes impairment determinations based on credible data. The term ―credible data‖ means 

scientifically valid chemical, physical, or biological monitoring data collected under a scientifically 

accepted sampling and analysis plan, including quality control and quality assurance procedures that are 

consistent with Alaska WQS (18 AAC 70). Water quality data supportive of an impairment 

determination must be specific to the waterbody. Water quality data and information that are less than 5 

years old are preferred. In certain instances, data and information more than 5 years old may be 

considered in an impairment determination. For those instances, the data and information are carefully 

scrutinized and reviewed before they are validated as credible.

Impairment determinations must be substantiated with empirical water quality chemistry unless the 

water quality criterion is a narrative qualitative standard such as the absence of a visible sheen or 

presence of sludge.

DEC uses the following guidelines to determine whether a waterbody is impaired:

Water quality monitoring data that documents persistent exceedances of a criterion or criteria 

established in Alaska WQS (18 AAC 70) 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

18

Issuance of a notice of violation or other enforcement action definitively linked to a 

persistent water quality violation (of 18 AAC 70) that does not result in adequate corrective 

measures

Photographs or videos with appropriate documentation definitively linked to persistent 

exceedances of WQS (Photographic or videographic documentation is supportive of water 

quality data unless such documentation is supportive of a narrative water quality criterion

such as for residues.)

Documented persistent presence of residues (floating solids, debris, sludge, deposits, foam, 

scum) on or in the water, on the bottom, or on adjoining shorelines

Documentation or water quality data, such as a report or study within the last 5 years, that 

demonstrates designated uses are adversely affected by pollutant condition data or 

documentation that is more than 5 years old. Data or documentation older than 5 years old is 

only considered if it is determined to reflect the current condition of the waterbody.

Developed listing methodology guidelines

Documentation from a resource agency or other credible source that applies the use of best 

professional judgment to provide credible data. Best professional judgment is used to 

determine whether a waterbody persistently exceeds WQS or has designated uses that are 

adversely affected by pollutant sources.

Best professional judgment determinations should be made by more than one professional and at the 

agency level; must be made by a professional knowledgeable in the relevant field of expertise and 

generally be based on that person’s experience and all the information reasonably available at the time; 

should be based on the best available scientific data and information; and must be subject to 

management level review.

Best professional judgment recommendations from outside DEC must be affirmed by DEC, and 

available data and basis for the decision should be documented.

Alaska’s process for listing an individual waterbody under Section 303(d) begins with an internal review 

of existing and new information for ACWA-nominated waters or former open files. Waters may be 

brought to the attention of DEC by its staff, other state and federal agencies, municipalities, Native 

organizations and tribes, industry, and the concerned public. In the development of the Integrated 

Report, DEC solicits public participation in providing existing and readily available water quality data 

and information.

DEC staff initially evaluate available information about a waterbody to determine the presence of 

pollutants and/or persistent exceedances of WQS or impacts to the designated uses and the degree to 

which WQS are attained. This process constitutes a DEC desk audit and may involve a preliminary field 

review and the collection of water quality monitoring data. The possible findings and the subsequent 

actions are described below: 

Credible data and information indicates that the waterbody may be impaired and that existing 

controls may be inadequate to attain or maintain standards in a reasonable time period. The 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

19

waterbody is placed on the Category 5 list. As needed, these Section 303(d) listed 

waterbodies are scheduled for comprehensive water quality assessments.

Credible data and information indicates that the waterbody may be impaired and that existing 

controls are adequate to attain or maintain standards in a reasonable time period. If a water 

undergoes the process associated with a Category 4b assignment and meets those

requirements, the waterbody may be placed in Category 4b. Category 4b waters are tracked 

and monitored until standards are achieved.

Credible data and information on a waterbody indicates the waterbody is not impaired. The 

waterbody is placed in Category 1 or 2. Category 1 and 2 waters typically require no further 

action but may be reconsidered at any time if new water quality data or information becomes

available.

Not all Section 303(d)-designated waters have undergone comprehensive water quality assessments to 

determine either the extent of water quality impairment or whether existing controls are adequate to 

achieve the standards. DEC closely scrutinizes waterbodies to determine whether suspected water 

quality violations were thoroughly investigated and documented. This approach is designed to prevent 

the listing of waterbodies with inconclusive or circumstantial data or solely on observations.

A completed water quality assessment of a Category 5 waterbody confirms the extent of impairment to 

water quality, designated uses, or both. A comprehensive assessment requires the identification of the 

pollution source and pollutant causing the impairment. The subsequent actions that follow specific 

findings of the assessment are described below: 

The assessment indicates the waterbody is impaired and that existing controls are inadequate 

to achieve WQS in a reasonable time period. Category 5 waterbodies require a TMDL or 

equivalent waterbody recovery plan. 

The assessment indicates the waterbody is impaired but confirms existing controls are 

adequate to achieve standards in a reasonable time period. The waterbody is placed on the 

Category 4b list. 

The assessment indicates that the waterbody is not impaired. The waterbody is placed in 

Category 1 or 2.

Section 303(d) listed waterbodies are scheduled for TMDL development or waterbody recovery plan, 

now and out to year 2014. The TMDL schedule and the criteria for developing the schedule are provided

in Appendix C.

DEC has developed specific listing criteria guidelines for the most common pollutants for impairments 

from turbidity, pathogens, and residues in Appendix I. Addition listing criteria guidelines for residues is 

contained in Appendix G. Site specific information including biological assessment information (such as 

sediment profiling imaging) can be used to help determine whether an impairment exists and may be 

used to justify variance from listing methodologies as long as the information provides a clear 

demonstration as to whether the waterbody is meeting the applicable water quality standard.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

2. Categories, Assessment Methodology, and Results

20

Removal of Waterbodies from the Category 5 List

After a waterbody has been placed on the Category 5 list, several conditions can lead to removal of the 

waterbody from the list. All determinations to remove waterbodies from the Category 5 list are subject 

to approval by EPA. One or more of the following conditions can support delisting of a waterbody:

More recent and accurate data show that one or more of the applicable WQS are met.

More sophisticated water quality modeling demonstrates that one or more of the applicable 

WQS are met.

Flaws in the original analysis of data and information led to the water being incorrectly 

listed.

Revised listing criteria negate the criteria for listing.

The water quality standard for which the waterbody was listed has been revised and the water 

meets the new water quality standard.

Sufficiently stringent requirements have been applied. Examples are incorporation of TMDLtype controls into the NPDES permit or controls such as those applied by a cleanup or 

remediation plan with assurance that one or more of the WQS will be met within a

reasonable time period.

A TMDL or equivalent waterbody plan has been developed. If a TMDL is developed, the 

water is placed in Category 4a; if an equivalent waterbody recovery plan is developed, the 

water is placed in Category 4b.

Other pollution controls that ensure WQS are attained and are developed in a reasonable time 

period (as described for Category 4b waterbodies).

Other relevant information supports the decision that the water should not be included on the 

Category 5 list.

In addition, all of the following conditions are required to support a determination to remove a water 

from the Category 5 list:

―Good cause‖—an explanation of why or on what basis the water was originally listed and 

why it is now appropriate to remove the listed water or redefine the listed area—has been 

demonstrated.

An administrative record and documentation supporting the recommended determination is 

needed.

A public notice of the proposed delisting is published and public comment is sought. 

Typically the Integrated Report acts as the vehicle for providing public notice and soliciting 

comments. In special instances, a public meeting could be held in the community closest to 

the waterbody in question.

When considering a determination to remove a waterbody from the Category 5 list, the level 

of data to support a determination and burden of proof are not required to be greater than 

were used in the initial listing determination. 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

21

APPENDIX A Waterbody Categories 2 

through 5

The tables in this appendix describe the waterbodies that have been placed in Categories 2 through 5. No 

waterbodies in Alaska have been identified as Category 1 because the state does not possess that level of 

information for any one waterbody.

To more easily sort and find waterbodies within the tables of this appendix, each waterbody is 

associated with one of three general regions in Alaska. Within each category, waterbodies are organized 

by region in the following order: Interior, Southcentral, and Southeast.

Unless otherwise stated in the narrative associated with a waterbody, no determination has been made 

about the effects to any designated use(s) for that waterbody. 

The following abbreviations or notations are used consistently in Appendix A tables:

The ―Region‖ column indicates the general region of Alaska in which the waterbody is 

located. The abbreviations are defined as follows: IN for Interior, SC for Southcentral, and 

SE for Southeast.

The ―AK ID Number‖ column identifies the Alaska waterbody-specific identification 

number, such as ―20402-409.‖ The first five digits of the number represent the USGS

hydrologic (catalog) unit in which the waterbody is located. The last three digits identify the 

type of waterbody, as follows: 001 for rivers, creeks, or streams; 400 for lakes; 500 for bays 

(i.e., marine waters); 600 for estuaries; 700 for wetlands; and 800 for coastal waters (i.e., 

coastline).

The ―Waterbody‖ column provides the name of the waterbody.

The ―Location‖ column describes the area or provides location information to clarify the 

location of the waterbody.

The ―Area of Concern‖ column describes the specific area of the waterbody that is 

considered. The abbreviation ―N/A‖ means either ―not applicable‖ or ―not available.‖

The ―Water Quality Standard‖ column identifies the 18 AAC 70 standard that is being 

measured. This column also identifies one or more WQS that are not attained in the 

waterbody if the water is a CWA Section 303(d) listed (Category 5) waterbody.

The ―Pollutant Parameters‖ column identifies the specific pollutant or pollutants for which 

the waterbody is impaired or, for non-impaired waterbodies, the specific pollutant or 

pollutants of concern. For instance, a waterbody could be Section 303(d) listed as impaired 

for the ―Residues‖ standard from the specific pollutant parameter of bark and woody debris.

The ―Pollutant Sources‖ column identifies the source or sources of the pollutant or pollutants.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

22

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

IN Category 2

40510-

005

Caribou 

Creek

Denali 

National Park 16.1 miles Turbidity Turbidity Mining

Caribou Creek was included on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for turbidity from past mining activity within Denali National Park and Preserve. The waterbody lost its 

sinuosity along segments of the watershed. Currently there is no active mining on Caribou Creek and current National Park Service (NPS) policy will not permit 

future placer mining. A site visit with NPS, EPA, and DEC was conducted in 2009 to review the progress of previous reclamation efforts and to assess any areas 

requiring additional reclamation activities. NPS established seven cross sections for floodplain design purposes. Topographic monitoring was conducted before and 

after the establishment of the seven cross sections. Channel locations and sinuosity were surveyed with a global positioning system (GPS), and water discharge was 

measured. Analysis and evaluation of site and data concluded that Caribou creek is meeting the turbidity standard, although further work would be beneficial. 

Therefore, a draft recovery plan has been prepared to reconstruct the floodplain, rebuild the channel(s), and provide for more natural overbank flooding and 

deposition. The reconstruction will be followed by a revegetation effort. If funding becomes available, work is to begin in 2010.

IN Category 2

40506-

007 Chena River Fairbanks 15 miles Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products Urban Runoff

Chena River was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for turbidity; petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease; and sediment. The identified pollutant source is urban runoff. 

DEC conducted sampling in 2005, 2007, and 2009 for hydrocarbons and sediment. Data have shown that the Chena River met WQS for the petroleum hydrocarbon 

standard and remains impaired from sediment. Data are currently being reviewed for the sediment standard.

IN Category 2

40506-

002

Chena 

Slough Fairbanks 13 miles Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products Urban Runoff

This waterbody was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease standard and the sediment standard. 

Information presented in the 1994 Statewide Water Quality Assessment survey indicated that a petroleum problem existed and was affecting water quality. File 

assessment information indicates nonpoint source problems result from the surface water runoff, road construction, site clearing, and dewatering activities from 

gravel operations. Based on best professional judgment of DEC staff, this water was listed for petroleum products. DEC conducted water quality testing in 2005, 

2007, and 2009. Data have shown that the Chena Slough met WQS for the petroleum hydrocarbon standard. Data are currently being reviewed for the sediment 

standard.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

23

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

IN Category 2 40505-

401

Harding 

Lake Fairbanks N/A Fecal Coliform Bacteria Fecal Coliform Bacteria Urban Runoff

Harding Lake was placed on the 1998 Section 303(d) list and was delisted on February 13, 2004. Harding Lake first appeared on the Alaska Section 303(d) list in 

1994. In compiling the 1994 list, data were reviewed from studies conducted in 1974, 1986, 1987, 1988, and 1994. Virtually all data showed Harding Lake was 

consistently meeting the FC bacteria WQS during each sampling effort. However, one sample collected in 1986 showed a high level of FC bacteria (more than 60 

colonies/100 milliliters [ml]). Although the geometric mean of 29 samples taken during the 1986 study was meeting WQS (15.7 colonies/100 ml), a graduate 

student study of Harding Lake suggested the lake may not be meeting the standard because of extensive recreational use. Because of this concern, DEC decided that 

―based on the limited sample results and high population density using onsite wastewater disposal systems, it is likely that additional monitoring will show the 

waterbody to be water quality limited for fecal coliform bacteria.‖ Harding Lake continued to be listed in 1996 and 1998 listings because no more information was 

available. DEC conducted additional monitoring and data analysis in 1999. Data collected in fiscal years 1999, 2000, and 2001 through an approved QAPP showed 

83% non-detects and no exceedances of Alaska WQS (18 AAC 70) for FC bacteria of less than 20 FC/100 ml. These results were consistent with samples collected 

in 1987, 1988, and 1994 that also showed Harding Lake attaining WQS. A sampling report prepared by the DNR Division of Land, Mining and Water (DOLMW) 

and DEC and previous studies by DEC documents this information. In summary, the initial listing relied on one sample event and a concern that increased 

recreational use of the lake was causing suspected additional FC bacteria inputs to the lake. In reviewing the initial listing, it is clear that the one high sample result 

was an inconsistent outlier and should not have led to listing Harding Lake as impaired. Later sampling showed WQS are being achieved and the recreational use of 

the lake is not causing violations as initially suspected. The new level of information showing Harding Lake should be delisted is a much stronger body of evidence 

than that used for the original listing determination. Based on the findings, Harding Lake was removed from Alaska’s Section 303(d) list of impaired waters in the 

2002/2003 Report.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

24

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

IN Category 2 60402-

601

Nearshore 

Beaufort 

Lagoons

Sag River to 

Simpson 

Lagoon

N/A

Temperature,

Dissolved Inorganic 

Substances

Temperature, 

Salinity Causeway

Nearshore Beaufort Lagoons was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for temperature and salinity. In 1998 the waterbody was delisted and moved to Category 4b

for tracking and monitoring. Various study reports and information from the EPA Alaska Operations Office indicated that the hydrology and water quality 

(temperature and salinity) of the Nearshore Beaufort Sea was affected by the causeways and was suspected to have adverse effects to anadromous fish in 1996. 

Mitigation to correct problems with water quality and fish passage agreed upon in the Negotiated Settlement Agreement for Endicott and West Dock Causeways

between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the permit holders (Public Notice 91-1). This mitigation, described more specifically in permit 

modification FF 820562, consisted of additional breaching at both West Dock and Endicott causeways. Breaching construction was finished in fall 1995. The North 

Slope Borough requires water quality monitoring of the waterbody as a condition to conduct oil and gas operations adjacent and within the waterbody. Monitoring 

for temperature and salinity of Nearshore Beaufort Lagoons is performed on an annual basis during the ice-free periods, as required by the North Slope Borough. 

Data and information transmitted to DEC and EPA in 2002 support that this waterbody is attaining the WQS for temperature and dissolved inorganic substances. 

Post-causeway monitoring studies have demonstrated that there is no biological impact and that water quality is within state standards. Based on this information,

the waterbody was placed in Category 2 in 2003.

SC Category 2 30102-

605

Captain’s 

Bay

Unalaska 

Island N/A Residues Settleable Solids Seafood Processing

This waterbody was placed on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for settleable solids. Data used for the 1994 list indicated that the established zone of deposit (ZOD) for 

the discharger was being exceeded. Monitoring data evaluated by the DEC has resulted in the conclusion that the discharger is meeting ZOD requirements. This 

waterbody was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 1998.

SC Category 2

20401-

403 Cheney Lake Anchorage N/A Fecal Coliform Bacteria Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Urban Runoff, 

Storm Drainage

Cheney Lake was placed on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. Water quality data collected by the Municipality of 

Anchorage from 1991 to 1994 indicated that the FC bacteria criterion was exceeded in almost every month of monitoring. However, in 2006 DEC conducted 

extensive water quality monitoring in Cheney Lake. The 2006 data shows FC bacteria levels met state WQS the vast majority of the time. DEC believes the higher 

levels, when state WQS were exceeded, are from natural conditions. Cheney Lake is currently meeting WQS for two reasons: (1) the Municipality of Anchorage

(and USF&WS) campaign to reduce the goose populations in Anchorage (because of increased number of geese/aircraft incidences, including a crash of a military 

plane with numerous fatalities blamed on waterfowl), and (2) a successful public awareness campaign educating pet owners on the benefits and owner responsibility

of picking up after pets, i.e., ―Scoop the Poop‖ campaign. As a result of this monitoring, Cheney Lake was removed from the Section 303(d) list and placed in 

Category 2 in 2008.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

25

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2

20505-

001

Cottonwood 

Creek Wasilla Entire 13 miles Residues Foam & Debris Urban Runoff, Urban Development

Cottonwood Creek (13 miles) was Section 303(d) listed for non-attainment of the residues standard for foam and debris in 2002/2003. DEC received numerous 

complaints about foam in Cottonwood Creek and foam was observed in the creek in 1998, 2000, 2001, and 2002. The problem was recurring, with no existing 

controls to address it. An intensive water quality evaluation was conducted on Cottonwood Creek, commencing in September 2004. Water quality sampling 

conducted in 2004 and 2005 indicated that the foam present in Cottonwood Creek is most likely naturally occurring. However, hydrologic changes within the 

watershed may be influencing the amount and timing of the foam. The foam was further investigated, and water sampling conducted in 2006 examined temperature 

and FC bacteria. Foam was determined to be naturally occurring and to be meeting WQS. Foam was determined to be influenced by natural conditions. Fecal 

coliform bacteria were found to exceed WQS, and the source(s) was unknown, and section of Cottonwood Creek has been determined to be impaired from FC 

bacteria.

SC Category 2

30401-

601

Dutch 

Harbor

Unalaska 

Island 0.5 acre Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products

Industrial, Urban 

Runoff

Dutch Harbor was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease standard for petroleum products. An EPA study 

in August 1994, Water Quality Assessment for Greater Unalaska Bay, concluded the waterbody was affected by petroleum products. TMDL assessment began in 

2006. An existing data compilation was completed, and potential risk sources were identified and assigned priorities. Rigorous field sampling events were 

conducted in April 2007, September 2007, and September 2008 and included water column and sediment samples for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes 

(BTEX); polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH); and total organic carbon (TOC). Results indicate the water column meets WQS but several sediment results had 

surface sheening in exceedance of the standard. The original area of impairment has been reduced as a result of the field sampling and includes two nearshore 

impaired areas and some areas of the harbor found to meet WQS. The TMDL for the remaining impaired areas is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2010.

Implementation will focus on dock and harbor BMPs to minimize any new petroleum hydrocarbon inputs to the area.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

26

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2

20302-

601

Eagle River 

Flats (60 

acres)

Fort 

Richardson

N/A

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

White 

Phosphorus, 

Munitions 

Residues

Military Base 

Operations

This waterbody was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for white phosphorus. An EPA consultant, CH2M Hill prepared a report, Eagle River Flats -

Comprehensive Evaluation Report, in July 1994. This report is a detailed environmental assessment that qualifies as a waterbody assessment. The report presents 

water quality data and other information on the relationship between white phosphorous (from artillery shell residue) and its lethal effect on waterfowl in the Eagle 

River Flats area. A ROD was signed on September 30, 1998, placing the water in Category 4b. Approximately 60 acres were identified as contaminated and 

requiring treatment. Remediation activities occurred in 1998–2001. During each field season, six pumping systems were placed into the contaminated ponds and 

operated to drain the water from the ponds. Draining the ponds allowed the sediments to dry out and caused the white phosphorus to oxidize and no longer be a 

threat to the waterfowl. Field activities resulted in a dramatic decrease in white phosphorus concentrations in more than half the total acreage identified as 

contaminated. By 2004, more than 75 percent of the contaminated areas were addressed. The remaining area was treated in 2005, the last year for active treatment. 

The Army is now in the long-term monitoring phase to ensure that the remedial action will meet the long-term goal of reducing duck mortality to levels identified in 

the ROD. Additional pumping of water from the ponds and drying of white phosphorus contaminated sediments occurred in 2007. DEC’s Contaminated Sites 

section summary on Eagle River Flats can be viewed at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/spar/csp/search/csites_report.asp?Reckey=199721X204805 . DEC considers the 

Army to have met the milestones in the ROD, and mortality is considered to be at levels typical for the species in this area. This water was removed from Category 

4b in 2008.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

27

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2 30204-

023

Eskimo 

Creek King Salmon N/A

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease; Toxic &

Other Deleterious Organic 

and Inorganic Substances

Petroleum 

Products, Diesel 

Range Organics,

Trichloroethylene 

Landfill, Fuel 

Storage, Former 

Underground 

Storage Tanks, 

Former Dry Wells 

(Injection Wells), 

Military

Eskimo Creek was initially placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list based on information provided by the EPA’s Comprehensive Environmental Response,

Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) or ―Superfund‖ group. Seeps from a fuel storage area, former dry wells, and a dump adjacent to Eskimo Creek led to 

potential stream water contamination by metals, pesticides, and petroleum hydrocarbons. The waterbody was listed for these parameters in 1996. Later information 

suggested removing metals and pesticides as a pollutant parameter because no analytical tests support these constituents as contaminants of concern and placement 

of this segment of Eskimo Creek in Category 2. The primary sources of petroleum hydrocarbons and trichloroethylene (TCE) from aboveground storage tanks and 

dry wells have been removed. A final ROD for Groundwater Zone 1 was signed by DEC and the Air Force in November/December 2000. A final ROD for 

Groundwater Zone 2 and a Zone 2 Addendum were signed by DEC in December 2002 and 2003 and by the Air Force in December 2003. Future activities based on 

the RODs include removal of extruding surface drums and debris and the recontouring and revegetation of the landfill cover; continued operation, maintenance, and 

monitoring of the biovent systems; monitored natural attenuation of the groundwater; groundwater modeling; continued operation of the water treatment system; 

annual monitoring of groundwater (A-Aquifer and B-Aquifer) and surface water; implementation and maintenance of institutional controls; and 5-year reviews. The 

waterbody was placed in Category 2 because WQS are attained for petroleum hydrocarbons, TCE, and diesel-range organics (DRO) in 2002/2003.

SC Category 2

20401-

412

Hood

/Spenard 

Lake

Anchorage N/A Fecal Coliform Bacteria Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria

Urban Runoff, 

Industrial

Hood/Spenard Lake was Section 303(d) listed in 1996 for FC bacteria and was placed in Category 4a because a TMDL for FC bacteria was developed and finalized 

on September 30, 1997. Review of water quality data from 2000 to 2009 shows that the waters are meeting the FC bacteria standard. The waterbody was moved to

Category 2 in 2010. This waterbody remains on the Category 5 Section 303(d) list for low DO.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

28

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2

30102-

602 Iliuliuk Bay Unalaska Island

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products Urban Runoff

Iliuliuk Bay was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease standard for petroleum products. An EPA study in 

August 1994, Water Quality Assessment for Greater Unalaska Bay, concluded the waterbody was affected by petroleum products. TMDL assessment began in 2006 

with completing an existing data compilation and identifying and prioritizing potential risk sources. Rigorous field sampling events were conducted in April 2007 

and September 2007 and included water column and sediment samples for BTEX, PAH, and TOC. All sample results for Iliuliuk Bay indicate the water and 

sediments are meeting standards for petroleum hydrocarbons. DEC is removing Iliuliuk Bay from the Category 5/Section 303(d) list based on these data in 2010.

SC Category 2

20402-

409 Jewel Lake Anchorage N/A Fecal Coliform Bacteria Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Urban Runoff,

Land Development

Jewel Lake was Section 303(d) list in 1994 for FC bacteria. A TMDL was developed and finalized on September 30, 1997. Jewel Lake was removed from the 

Section 303(d) list in 1998. Monitoring results from July through October 2008 and May and June 2009 indicate the water is meeting state WQS for FC bacteria. 

The waterbody was moved to Category 2 in 2010. 

SC Category 2 20701-

502 Kazakof Bay Afognak Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

This waterbody was placed on the 1998 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the residues standard for bark and woody debris. Dive survey information for this 

LTF (known as Kazakof Bay 1) document exceedances of the bark accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to the ATTF Log Transfer 

Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and Monitoring/Reporting Guidelines, October 21, 1985) at 1.2 acres of bottom coverage in February 2000 and at 3.0 acres 

in February 2001. A March 2004 dive survey report documented 0.20 acre of continuous residue coverage. Therefore, the water was removed from Category 5 

(Section 303(d) list) and placed in Category 2 in 2004.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

29

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2

20302-

005

Kenai River 

(lower) Kenai

Slikok 

Creek 

(river mile 

19.0) to 

the mouth 

(river mile

0.0)

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Total Aromatic 

Hydrocarbons 

Motorized 

Watercraft

The Kenai River was Section 303(d) listed in 2006 for petroleum hydrocarbons (total aromatic hydrocarbon [TAH]). Beginning in 2000 and through 2007, DEC 

received water quality data that showed exceedances of the Alaska petroleum hydrocarbon water quality standard for TAH during the month of July. A water 

quality study conducted by DEC in 2003 confirmed the source of the petroleum hydrocarbon pollution was from motorboats. Sampling also indicated detections in 

the river of no petroleum in May, low levels in June, exceedances in July, low levels in August, and no contamination in September. In 2008, regulatory actions 

taken by ADF&G and DNR, requiring all outboard engines operating on the Kenai River during the month of July to be either four-stroke or direct fuel injection 

two-stroke motors, allowed the Kenai River to be moved to Category 4b. Intensive water quality monitoring conducted in July 2008 and 2009 confirmed the actions 

taken resulted in the Kenai River attaining waterbody standards. The Kenai River was moved to Category 2 in the 2010 Integrated Report. DEC will continue 

periodic monitoring to ensure WQS are being met. 

SC Category 2 30203-

001

King Salmon 

Creek King Salmon N/A Petroleum Hydrocarbons, Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products

Landfill, Military, 

Unknown Drum 

Contents

This waterbody was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease and for metals and pesticides. Monthly influent and effluent 

samples are analyzed for all potential contaminants of concern. A final ROD for Groundwater Zone 3 was signed by DEC and the Air Force in April 2000. 

Activities required by the ROD include landfill cover inspection and maintenance; continued operation of the water treatment system; annual monitoring of 

groundwater (A-Aquifer and B-Aquifer) and surface water; maintenance of institutional controls; and a 5-year review. The extensive sampling program has not 

identified any exceedances of surface WQS at this site; therefore, the waterbody was placed in Category 2 in 2002/2003.

SC Category 2 20701-

501

Lookout 

Cove Afognak Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

Lookout Cove was previously placed on the Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the residues standard for bark and woody debris. Dive survey information for 

this LTF from 2002 reported 1.2 acres of continuous residues coverage, and 2003 dive survey information reported 0.7 acre of continuous bottom coverage. These 

dive surveys document that the residues coverage is less than the 1.5 acres impairment standard for residues; therefore, the waterbody was removed from the 

Category5/Section 303(d) list and placed in Category 2 in 2004.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

30

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2 30204-

001

Naknek 

River King Salmon N/A

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oil & Grease; Toxic & 

Other Deleterious Organic 

and Inorganic Substances

Petroleum 

Products, TCE

Landfill, Fuel 

Storage, Former 

Marina, Military

Naknek River was Section 303(d) listed in 1996 and was not expected to meet WQS because of pollutant sources coming from tributary waterbodies (Eskimo 

Creek, King Salmon Creek, and Red Fox Creek). In 1998 Naknek River was removed from the Section 303(d) list because other pollution controls were in place. 

The primary contaminant sources (a drum storage area and underground storage tanks) were removed prior to 1988. In 1998, and later in 2000, it was determined 

that this waterbody needed additional monitoring and tracking. Samples were collected from the Naknek River at various locations over the years for laboratory 

analysis. No results were detected above state and federal regulatory levels. In December 1998, oil sheen was observed on the Naknek River bank adjacent to the 

King Salmon Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Marina. In 1999 a final ROD was signed by DEC and the Air Force for a groundwater area located approximately 

1/2-mile downstream from the main runway at the King Salmon Airport that includes approximately 3,000 feet of the Naknek River’s north shore. Future activities 

identified in the ROD include passive product recovery system operation and maintenance; annual monitoring of groundwater and surface water; landfill cover 

inspection and maintenance; implementation and maintenance of institutional controls; and a 5-year review. Between September 2002 and January 2003,

approximately 1,100 cubic yards of petroleum-contaminated soil was removed. Groundwater, surface water, and sediment monitoring will continue at the marina to 

evaluate remedial efforts and attenuation processes. No seep or sheen has been observed following the source removal action. Naknek River was placed in Category 

2 in 2004.

IN Category 2

50404-

001

Red Dog 

Creek,

Ikalukrok 

Creek

Near Red Dog 

Operation N/A Dissolved Inorganic Substances

Total Dissolved 

Solids Mining

EPA approved DEC’s reclassification of the uses of Red Dog and Ikalukrok creeks for industrial water supply in February 2002. EPA approved a site-specific 

criterion for zinc in July 1998. The facility was issued a water quality-based permit and the revised permit is an existing control that will bring the waterbody into 

compliance with applicable WQS (fresh water industrial water supply) for total dissolved solids (TDS), cadmium, lead, selenium, and the site-specific standard for 

zinc. A site-specific criterion for TDS was developed and approved by EPA on April 21, 2006. In the 1998 Integrated Report, Red Dog and Ikalukrok creeks was 

placed in Category 4b; however, because of the development of the reclassification, the water-quality based permit, the site specific criteria for zinc and TDS, and 

both Red Dog Creek and Ikalukrok Creek meeting the 1,500-milligram-per-liter site specific criteria for TDS, these creeks are in attainment of WQS. Therefore, the 

waterbody was placed in Category 2 in 2006.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

31

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2 30204-

002

Red Fox 

Creek King Salmon N/A

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease; Toxic & 

Other Deleterious Organic 

and Inorganic Substances

Petroleum 

Products, Diesel 

Range Organics, 

Benzene, and 

Trichloroethylene

Landfill, Fire 

Training Areas, 

Military

Red Fox Creek was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons and oils and grease standard for petroleum hydrocarbons and 

the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. Information provided by EPA’s CERCLA (or Superfund) group showed that 

the waterbody was water quality impaired from petroleum hydrocarbons and TCE. Consequently, the metals parameter was dropped from this listing. Water quality 

assessment studies were completed for the waterbody, and a remediation plan has been implemented. Red Fox Creek formerly consisted of a small stream before 

construction of the airport runway in the 1940s. It is currently a losing stream with minimal flow that enters the groundwater system as it intersects the runway. Red 

Fox Creek does not directly affect the Naknek River. Contaminants of concern included DRO, gasoline-range organics (GRO), and benzene in surface water, and 

DRO, GRO, benzene, toluene, tetrachloroethene, and PAH in sediment. Surface water and sediment sample data from 1997 showed that Red Fox Creek did not 

meet WQS and was placed in Category 5. The 1997 remedial actions included the secondary source removal and treatment of the contaminated soil in on-facility 

biocells. The 1998 remedial actions included the installation of an air sparging and soil vapor extraction system. The treatment system had been intermittently and 

seasonally operated from 1999. The 2001 groundwater samples reveal DRO, GRO, TCE, and benzene above groundwater cleanup levels. During the Remedial 

Process Optimization Phase II meetings in 2002, which included participants from EPA, DEC, Air Force, Pacific Air Forces, Air Force Center for Environmental 

Excellence, and consultants, it was agreed that, based on operational data, the system should be converted into a biovent system to more adequately treat the 

contamination. The conversion occurred in late 2002. No surface water quality criteria were exceeded in 2002 and 2003. Future activities required by the ROD for 

this site include continued operation and maintenance of the biovent system; monitored natural attenuation of the groundwater; annual groundwater, surface water, 

and sediment sampling; implementation and maintenance of institutional controls; and 5-year review. This water was removed from Category 5 (Section 303(d) list) 

and placed in Category 2 in 2004.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

32

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2

30104-

601

Saint Paul 

Island 

Lagoon

St. Paul 

Harbor, St. 

Paul Island

N/A Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products

Leaking 

Aboveground 

Storage Tanks

A segment of Saint Paul Island Lagoon was placed on the 2002/2003 Section 303(d) list for the petroleum hydrocarbons and oils and grease standard for petroleum 

products. An oil sheen was observed on the water on a daily basis. The pollutant source was a seal processing plant built in 1918 and demolished in 1988 when the 

commercial seal harvesting ended. Diesel contamination was thought to have been from spillage during fuel handling. An area of approximately 120 feet by 120 feet 

showed evidence of diesel contamination and extended from the surface to groundwater at 3 to 5 feet. Groundwater movement from the contaminated area 

threatened uncontaminated wetlands to the west and northwest. The areal extent of contamination was estimated at 10,000 square feet. Leaking aboveground storage 

tanks and diesel seepage were ongoing into the lagoon from as early as the 1980s. Controls implemented have controlled the sheen; therefore, this water was 

removed from the Section 303(d) list in 2008.

SE Category 2 10302-

502 Corner Bay Tenakee Inlet, Baranof Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

This waterbody was placed on the 1998 Section 303(d) list for debris. At that time, dive survey information from May 1996 demonstrated an exceedance of the bark 

accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to the ATTF Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and Monitoring/Reporting

Guidelines, October 21, 1985) at 1.18 acres of bottom coverage. Dive survey reports from June 2002 of 0.1 acre and from July 2001 of 0.6 acre of bottom coverage 

document that this water is compliant with standards. This water was removed from the Category 5 (Section 303(d) list) in 2002/2003.

SE Category 2 10204-

502

Cube Cove NW Admiralty 

Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

Cube Cove on Admiralty Island in Southeast Alaska was first placed on Alaska’s Section 303(d) list in 1998 as impaired for residues from LTF operations. Cube 

Cove remained on the subsequent 2002/2003 Section 303(d) list. The 1998 Section 303(d) listing criteria required only one dive survey documenting an exceedance 

of 1.0 acre of continuous coverage bark residues. A January 1998 dive survey documented 9.5 acres of continuous coverage bark on the marine bottom. Subsequent

dive surveys document that the Cube Cove LTF has a trend of reduced continuous coverage bark residues. Dive surveys document 1.35 acres in April 2001 and 1.2 

acres in December 2002. A February 2004 dive survey documented 0.9 acre of continuous bark residue coverage; therefore, Cube Cove was removed from the 

Category 5/Section 303(d) list and moved to Category 2 in 2004.

SE Category 2 10202-

601

Hamilton 

Bay Kake N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

This waterbody was placed on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for debris. Past dive surveys had indicated that excessive bark existed on the bottom of Hamilton Bay as 

a result of logging operations on Kupreanof Island that use the Hamilton Bay LTF. Dive survey reports from September 2000 of 0.6 bottom coverage and the June 

2002 of 0.6 acre document that this water is compliant with standards. This water was removed from the Category 5 (Section 303(d) list) in 2002/2003.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

33

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2 10202-

006

Hammer 

Slough Mitkof Island N/A Sediment Sediment Urban Runoff, Gravel Mining

This waterbody was Section 303(d) listed in 1994. DEC staff has coordinated implementation of best management practices (BMPs) for the waterbody from the 

responsible parties that have resulted in the waterbody attaining WQS. The water quality data in the file support that the waterbody is no longer impaired. DEC staff 

inspected the Slough in April 2000 and confirmed that BMP implementation has been accomplished and effective in controlling sedimentation and recommended 

that this waterbody requires no further action. The water was placed in Category 2 in 2002/2003.

SE Category 2

10201-

501 Hobart Bay

Mainland, SE 

Stephens 

Passage

N/A Residues Bark & Woody 

Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

Hobart Bay was Section 303(d) listed in 1998 for non-attainment of the residues standard for bark and woody debris. Dive survey information from May 1996 (LTF

known as Hobart Bay 3) documented a significant exceedance of the bark accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to the ATTF Log 

Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and Monitoring/Reporting Guidelines, October 21, 1985) at 2.3 acres of bottom coverage. 1.3 acres of marine 

bottom adjacent to the LTF was listed as impaired. A 2007 dive survey documented that the LTF and log storage area (LSA) contained no continuous coverage by 

bark debris and only a few small patches of discontinuous coverage by bark debris. The December 2007 dive survey and assessment document that this facility is 

attaining WQS. The water was removed from the Section 303(d) in 2008.

SE Category 2

10103-

502

Klawock 

Inlet

Klawock 

Island, W. 

Prince of 

Wales Island

N/A Residues Bark & Woody 

Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

The area just off the dock and log transfer area at Klawock Inlet was Section 303(d) listed in 2002/2003 for non-attainment of the residues standard for bark and 

woody debris. A dive survey conducted by the operator of the facility in February 2004 documented 1.0 acre of continuous residues coverage, and a subsequent dive 

survey report in November 2004 documents continuous residues coverage at 0.5 acre. Two consecutive dive survey reports document that continuous residue 

coverage is less than the 1.5-acre impairment standard. Therefore, this waterbody was removed from the Category 5/Section 303(d) list in 2006.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

34

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2

10203-

001

Nakwasina 

River

Baranof 

Island, Sitka 8 miles Sediment, Turbidity Sediment, Turbidity Timber Harvest

Nakwasina River was placed on the 1998 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the sediment and turbidity standards. Past land use activities had created a 

number of concerns about water quality and fish habitat. The harvest of riparian timber and the location and lack of maintenance of the road system created the 

following conditions: decreased channel stability, landslides and small slope failures, increased sediment levels, loss of aquatic habitat, siltation of holding pools for 

migrating salmon, and alteration of watershed hydrology. Watershed effects resulted in use impairment for aquatic life. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) submitted a 

2-year Water Quality and Aquatic Habitat Restoration Assessment in February 2009 and recommended removal from the 303(d) list based on its results. The data 

demonstrate that turbidity levels have decreased below state WQS. The waterbody was moved to Category 2 in 2010.

SE Category 2 10202-

801

Point 

Macartney

Kupreanof 

Island, Kake N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

This waterbody was Section 303(d) listed for residues in 1998. Dive survey information documented an exceedance of bark accumulation level for the interim 

intertidal threshold (according to the Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation, and Monitoring/Reporting Guidelines, October 21, 1985) from February 

2001 at 1.2 acres of bottom coverage. A dive survey report from March 2002 documents 1.0 acre of bottom coverage, and another dive survey report from 

November 2002 reported 0.52 acre. These findings validate that this water is compliant with standards. This water was removed from the Category 5 (Section 

303(d) list) in 2002/2003.

SE Category 2 10202-

602 Rowan Bay Kuiu Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

This waterbody was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for debris (bark debris from deposition at an LTF). Past dive surveys have shown an exceedance of the 

bark accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to the Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and Monitoring/Reporting

Guidelines, October 21, 1985). Dive survey reports from May 2002 of 0.8 acre and from June 2001 of 0.6 acre of bottom coverage document that this water is 

compliant with standards. This water was removed from the Category 5 (Section 303(d) list) in 2002/2003.

SE Category 2 10202-

802 Saginaw Bay Kuiu Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

This waterbody was placed on the Section 303(d) list for excessive residues associated with an LTF. Dive survey information from 2001 documented a significant 

exceedance of the bark accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to the Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and 

Monitoring/Reporting Guidelines, October 21, 1985) at 1.7 acres of bottom coverage. A dive survey report from May 2002 documents 0.7 acre of bottom coverage 

and validates that that this water is compliant with standards. This water was removed from the Category 5 (Section 303(d) list) in 2002/2003.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

35

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2 10203-

502

Saint John 

Baptist Bay Baranof Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

Dive survey information from September 2000 documented a significant exceedance of the bark accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to 

the ATTF Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and Monitoring/Reporting Guidelines, October 21, 1985) at 1.32 acres of bottom coverage. Saint 

John Baptist was considered for Category 5/Section 303(d) listing during the 2002/2003 Integrated Report development process, but the facility came into 

compliance with the residues impairment standard. A dive survey report from June 2002 documented 0.2 acre of bottom coverage and validates that that this water 

is compliant with the residues standard.

SE Category 2 10203-

504

Salt Lake 

Bay

Port Frederick, 

Chichagof 

Island

N/A Residues Bark & Woody 

Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

This waterbody was placed on the 1998 Section 303(d) list for debris. Dive survey information from October 1991 demonstrated an exceedance of the bark 

accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to the Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation, and Monitoring/Reporting

Guidelines, October 21, 1985) at 1.16 acres of bottom coverage. Dive survey reports from May 2002 of 0.1 acre and from March 2000 of 0.3 acre of bottom 

coverage document that this water is compliant with standards. This water was removed from Category 5 (Section 303(d) list) in 2002/2003.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

36

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2

10303-

006

Sawmill 

Creek Haines N/A Residues Debris Urban Runoff

This waterbody was never Section 303(d) listed for debris, but was placed in Category 4b in 1996. Some debris removal work, in addition to a culvert replacement 

and reseeding, was completed in 1997. The debris was attributed to highway and maintenance sources. Plans called for moving the stream away from the 

highway/street in two areas and constructing a dike in another. Plans also called for establishing vegetative buffers, swales, and matting to improve filtration of 

runoff entering the stream. Priority actions for this water included designing and implementing an interagency watershed assessment and a recovery plan; 

establishing water quality monitoring objectives and implementing a water quality monitoring plan; and working with city of Haines to review and develop 

stormwater plans in accordance with EPA and DEC requirements. An extensive residues cleanup was undertaken in 2006 and 2007 and provided removal of 27,000 

pounds of scrap metal and 33 bags of trash. The bulk of the debris removed in 2007 was from legacy activities, including abandoned vehicles used for stream bank 

stabilization. Control measures are in place to prevent similar activities from occurring in the future (state and federal laws), however, more importantly, public 

acceptance of using abandoned vehicles for stream bank stabilization is no longer tolerated. Enforcement by the City and Borough of Haines police department also 

has reduced such types of illegal disposal practices. Spring cleanup events occur annually in the City of Haines. DEC does not have the resources to document litter 

trends in areas outside of Juneau. DEC relies on the best professional judgment from state and federal agencies and on credible information from the local watershed 

group (Takshanuk Watershed Council) to establish whether the creek meets WQS for debris. The majority of debris within the creek, for which the water was 

placed in Category 4b originally, has been removed. Any remaining or future debris/residues problems are not unlike those of other urban Alaskan waterways and 

are being addressed by the City of Haines. Consequently, it has been determined that the waterbody meets the residues criterion, and the waterbody was moved from 

Category 4b to Category 2 in 2008.

SE Category 2

10203-

503 Schulze Cove Fish Bay, Baranof Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris Log Storage Area

This section of Schulze Cove was Section 303(d) listed in 1998 for non-attainment of the residues standard for bark and woody debris. The Schulze Cove LSA

covers the whole Cove. Review of USF&WS video documentation and dive report (September 1995 report on dives from July 27 and 29, 1995, several transects) 

revealed extensive bark deposition (more than 1 acre in area and 10 centimeters [cm] in thickness). Historically, log storage activities have severely affected Schulze 

Cove. A December 2007 dive survey and assessment documents that this waterbody is attaining WQS and consequently removed from the Section 303(d) list in 

2008. The 2007 dive assessment work used a parallel pattern to survey the site and consisted of 17 transects at 300-foot spacing intervals. The sample point 

frequency was at 300-foot intervals using visual survey methods. The survey documented that the LSA contained no continuous coverage by bark debris and 25.02 

acres of discontinuous coverage by bark debris. The 2007 dive survey and assessment documents that this facility is attaining WQS and consequently removed from 

the Section 303(d) list in 2008.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

37

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2

10103-

602

Thorne Bay

(Log Storage 

Area)

Prince of 

Wales Island N/A Residues Bark & Wood Debris

Historical Log 

Transfer Facility

The Thorne Bay historical marine LTF, which consisted of both a nearshore log transfer area and an associated LSA, was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for nonattainment of the residues standard for bark and wood debris. Log transfer and storage activities began in 1962 and caused the accumulation of woody debris on the 

bottom of the head of Thorne Bay. Log transfer and storage activities ended in 2000, and the operator, USFS, does not plan to resume them; all equipment and 

facilities have been removed. A key feature of the recovery of the former log transfer and storage area is the Thorne River, which empties into the bay and deposits 

sediments onto a large sand and gravel delta, where they mix with debris and aid in biological recovery. The Log Storage Area: Dive surveys of the LSA conducted 

in July 2001 and June 2002 documented 1.1 acres of bark and wood debris on the marine bottom. Dive surveys in 2003 and 2005 detailed the benthic health of 161

acres of the former LSA. Findings included the following: (1) bark debris was mostly decomposed to small fragments and was mixed with natural sediments; (2) the 

bottom was biologically recovered, exhibiting mostly mature ―Stage III‖ biological communities; and (3) the site was an ―extremely healthy coastal embayment.‖ 

DEC determined, based on the detailed benthic assessment, that the residues standard is met in the former LSA. DEC removed the LSA from the Section 303(d) list 

and placed it in Category 2 in 2004. The LSA remained in Category 2 with no known impairments. The Log Transfer Facility: Dive surveys conducted in 1988 and 

1990 documented approximately 55 acres of bark accumulation in the LTF. Dive surveys of the LTF conducted in July 2001 and June 2002 documented 2.6 and 1.1 

acres of bark and wood debris, respectively, on the marine bottom. An April 2004 dive survey of the LTF documented 6.5 acres of bark and woody debris. The 

former LTF remained on the Section 303(d) list for a defined area of approximately 35 acres between the LTF shoreline and the boundary of the former LSA

established in the 2003-2005 benthic assessment. A December 2007 dive survey documented a reduced area of impaired marine bottom of only 7.5 acres and the 

rest of the previous area of impairment as meeting the residues criterion and attaining WQS. These findings suggest that biological recovery is proceeding and is 

well advanced within the area associated with the LTF. A residues TMDL for the Thorne Bay LTF was completed and approved by EPA on May 8, 2007. With the 

completed TMDL, the LTF was removed from the Section 303(d) list and placed in Category 4a in 2008 with an approved TMDL for residues.

SE Category 2 10103-

802 Tolstoi Bay

NW Bight of 

Tolstoi Bay, 

Prince of 

Wales Island

N/A Residues Bark & Woody 

Debris Log Storage Area

Tolstoi Bay had been on the Section 303(d) list since 1998 for non-attainment of the residues standard for bark and woody debris. A dive survey report from June 

1994 for this area (known as Tolstoi Bay 2) reported 1.82 acres of bottom coverage from debris. A March 2003 dive survey report showed 0.7 acre of bark on the

bottom. Therefore, the waterbody was removed from the Category 5/Section 303(d) list and moved to Category 2 in 2002/2003.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

38

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2

10102-

502-

001

Tongass 

Narrows 1

Tongass 

Narrows, 

Eastern 

Channel, SE of 

Thomas Basin

N/A Residues

Seafood Residues, 

Seafood 

Processing Wastes

Seafood Processing 

Facility

This waterbody segment was placed in Category 4b for residues in 2002/2003. The seafood processing facility exceeded its 1 acre ZOD standard for residues 

associated with its discharge permit, and EPA issued a compliance order/consent decree from for non-compliance with its waste discharge limitations. Additionally 

the facility has discharged seafood sludge, deposits, debris, scum, floating solids, oily wastes, or foam, which alone or in combination with other substances cause a 

film, sheen emulsion, or scum on the surface of the water. A 2005 dive survey reported a reduction of 0.31 acre from the 2004 survey, with a total acreage of 1.22,

and compliance with the residues impairment standard. Additionally, the EPA Region 10 compliance unit reported that the pile size of the seafood processing was

0.5 acre and that the facility was in compliance with the consent decree and its NPDES permit. Consequently, Tongass Narrows 1was moved from Category 4b to 

Category 2 in 2006.

SE Category 2

10102-

502-

002

Tongass 

Narrows 2

Tongass 

Narrows, 

Eastern 

Channel, SE of 

Thomas Basin

N/A Residues

Seafood Residues, 

Seafood 

Processing Wastes

Seafood Processing 

Facility

This waterbody segment was placed in Category 4b for residues in 2002/2003. Previously, the seafood processing facility exceeded its 1-acre ZOD standard for 

residues associated with its discharge permit and was under an EPA compliance order for non-compliance with its waste discharge limitations. Additionally, the 

facility had discharged seafood sludge, deposits, debris, scum, floating solids, oily wastes, or foam, which alone or in combination with other substances cause a 

film, sheen emulsion, or scum on the surface of the water. EPA conducted a compliance inspection of this facility in fall 2006. Reports from this compliance 

inspection found that the ZOD was less than 1.0 acre, at 0.5 acre, and the facility was compliant with the consent decree and its NPDES permit. This waterbody 

segment is now meeting WQS and was moved from Category 4b to Category 2 in 2008.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

39

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2

10103-

503

Twelvemile 

Arm

Prince of 

Wales Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris Log Storage Area

Twelvemile Arm had been on the Section 303(d) list since 1998 for non-attainment of the residues standard for bark and woody debris. Review of USF&WS video 

documentation and a dive transect conducted in 1997 revealed 100% coverage along an entire transect and numerous sections exceeding 10 cm in thickness, i.e., 

extensive bark deposition (more than 1 acre in are and more than 10 cm in thickness). Log storage activities had been conducted at the head of the arm in a shallow 

area lacking sufficient flushing capability. The log storage site is inactive and there have been no new sources of residues. A December 2007 dive survey and 

assessment documented that this water was meeting the residues criterion and attaining WQS. The 2007 survey documented that the LSA contained no continuous 

coverage by bark debris and only a few small patches of discontinuous cover by bark debris. The use of plan-view video and dive survey methods quantified the 

extent and type of both continuous and discontinuous coverage as 0.00 acres of bark debris. The 2007 dive survey and assessment documented that this water is 

meeting the residues criterion and attaining WQS. The water was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 2008.

SE Category 2

10102-

601 Ward Cove Ketchikan 80 acres

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances – Sediment 

Toxicity

Pulp Residues, 

Logs, Bark & 

Woody Debris, 

Sediment Toxicity 

due to Wood 

Decomposition 

By-products

Industrial

DEC and EPA determined that the approved and final ROD of the Superfund cleanup for the ―Ketchikan Pulp Company, Marine Operable Unit, Ketchikan, Alaska‖ 

(March 29, 2000) were adequate ―other pollution controls‖ for sediment toxicity (4-methyl phenol, ammonia, sulfides) in Ward Cove. Three acres have been 

dredged in the area of concern, in addition to thin capping of approximately 30 acres of the marine bottom. Monitoring in 2004 showed that thin layer capping was 

successful in eliminating sediment toxicity and stimulating colonization by bottom-dwelling invertebrate species. In May 2009 EPA determined that the Ward Cove 

sediment cleanup monitoring was complete and objectives had been achieved. Regular monitoring of the sediments since cleanup have shown that cleanup goals 

have been met. Consequently, the Superfund portion of Ward Cove has been moved to Category 2 in 2010.

SE Category 2 10203-

804

West Port 

Frederick

Chichagof 

Island N/A Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

This waterbody was placed on the 1998 Section 303(d) list for debris. Dive survey information from April 1995 demonstrated an exceedance of the bark 

accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to the ATTF Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and Monitoring/Reporting

Guidelines, October 21, 1985) at 1.35 acres of bottom coverage. Dive survey reports from April 2001 of 0.3 acre and from March 2000 of 0.3 acre of bottom 

coverage document that this water is compliant with standards. The water was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 2002/2003.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

40

Category 2 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 2 Waterbodies – attaining some uses but insufficient or no data and information to determine whether remaining uses are attained

Region Category

AK ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard

Previous Impairing 

Pollutant 

Parameters

Previous Impairing

Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2 10203-

018

Wrinkleneck 

Creek

Swan Lake

Sitka N/A Residues Solid Waste Urban

This waterbody was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for residues from trash and urban debris. The Swan Lake Watershed Recovery Strategy and TMDL were

completed (January 2000) and approved by EPA (May 2000). In 1999 volunteers collected more than 6,600 pounds of trash and debris. In spring 2002, the City and 

Borough of Sitka (CBS) completed the third annual Swan Lake Cleanup. Each year the amount collected has been lower than previous years. This cleanup will 

continue to be an annual event in coordination with a citywide spring clean up. The success of these efforts reflects the community’s commitment and the approach 

of the Swan Lake Watershed Recovery Strategy. CBS believes the actions to date support moving the Swan Lake watershed to Category 2. Swan Lake watershed 

has an implemented waterbody recovery plan and an approved TMDL, including annual cleanups and monitoring. CBS has provided the documentation confirming 

that it is implementing the TMDL and the waterbody is meeting WQS. DEC has concurred that the waterbody is attaining standards and placed the waterbody in 

Category 2 in 2002/2003.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

41

Category 3 Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Category 3 Waterbodies – Waters for which there is insufficient or no data and 

information to determine whether any designated use is attained

NOTE:

DEC has limited information on the following waters to make an attainment 

or impairment determination. Data are available upon request.

Regions are abbreviated as follows: IN – Interior, SE – Southeast, and SC –

Southcentral.

Within the Alaska waterbody identification number (WBID #), the first five 

numbers indicate in which USGS hydrologic unit code (i.e., HUC‖) the 

waterbody is located.

Region Waterbody Name Assessment Unit ID

SC Anchor River AK-20301-004

IN Anvil Creek AK-50104-008

SE Auke Bay AK-10301-501

SE Auke Lake AK-10301-403

SE Auke Nu Cove AK-10301-801

SE Auke Nu Creek AK-10301-008

SC Barbara Creek AK-20301-017

SC Beach @ Bluff Point AK-20301-801

SE Beach @ City Park AK-10202-804

SE Beach @ Douglas Harbor AK-10301-803

SC Beach @ Homer Spit AK-20301-802

SC Beach @ Kanakanak (Dillingham) AK-30304-801

SC Beach @ King Salmon AK-30204-801

SC Beach @ Kvichak Bay (Naknek) AK-30204-802

SE Beach @ Letnikof Cove AK-10303-802

SE Beach @ Lutak Inlet AK-10303-801

SC Beach @ Naknek River AK-30204-803

SC Beach @ North Kenai AK-20302-801

SE Beach @ Petroglyph Beach AK-10202-806

SC Beach @ Point Woronzof AK-20401-801

SE Beach @ Portage Cove Boat Harbor AK-10303-803

SE Beach @ Sandy Beach AK-10301-805

SE Beach @ Sandy Beach Park AK-10202-805

SC Beach @ Scandinavian Beach AK-30304-802

SC Beach @ Snag Point AK-30304-806

IN Beach @ West Beach AK-50104-802

SC Bear Cove AK-20301-506
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

42

Region Waterbody Name Assessment Unit ID

SC Bear Creek (Becharof) AK-30203-002

IN Bear Creek (Hogatza) AK-40608-002

SC Bear Creek (Homer) AK-20301-021

SC Bear Creek (Hope) AK-20302-013

IN Bear Creek (Salchaket Slough) AK-40507-006

SC Beaver Creek AK-20302-007

SC Beaver Inlet AK-30102-608

SC Beaver Lake AK-20701-406

SC Bell Flats AK-20701-701

SC Beluga Lake (Homer) AK-20301--401

SC Beluga Slough AK-20301-028

SC Benny Creek AK-20301-020

SE Berners Bay AK-10301-502

SC Bidarka Creek AK-20301-006

SC Bidarka Creek AK-20301-006

SC Birch Creek (Talkeetna) AK-20505-009

IN Birch Lake AK-40507-402

SE Black Bear Creek AK-10103-023

SC Bodenburg Creek AK-20402-003

IN Bolio Lake AK-40504-401

IN Bons Creek AK-50404-002

SE Bradfield River AK-10101-001

SC Bridge Creek AK-20301-007

SC Busch Creek AK-20501-001

SC Buskin Lake AK-20701-407

SC Buskin River AK-20701-002

SC Cache Creek AK-20504-001

SC California Creek AK-20401-415

IN Camp Creek (Nulato) AK-40705-002

SC Canoe Lake AK-20505-411

SE Carlanna Creek AK-10102-003

SC Cedar Bay AK-20201-501

IN Chatanika River AK-40509-002

SC China Poot Bay AK-20301-601

SC China Poot Creek AK-20301-013

SC Chuitna River AK-20601-001

SC Clear Creek AK-20503-001

IN Clearwater Creek AK-40503-001

IN Clearwater Lake AK-40503-402

IN Colleen Lake AK-60402-401

IN Colville River/Umiat Lake AK-60303-001

SC Conners Lake AK-20401-408

SC Cook Inlet (upper) AK-20401-601

SC Cooper Creek AK-20302-011
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

43

Region Waterbody Name Assessment Unit ID

SC Copper River AK-20104-001

SC Cottonwood Lake AK-20505-403

SE Crab Bay AK-10203-501

SC Crow Creek AK-20401-416

SC Dark Lake AK-20701-402

SC Deep Creek AK-20301-002

SC Delong Lake AK-20401-423

SC Deshka River (Kroto Creek) AK-20505-010

SC Diamond Creek AK-20301-008

SE Dog Salmon Creek AK-10103-007

SC Dogfish Bay (Koyuktolik Bay) AK-20301-018

SC Donlin Creek AK-30501-002

SE Dora Bay AK-10103-001

SE Dora Lake AK-10103-401

IN Dry Creek (Nome) AK-50104-010

SC East Creek AK-20301-019

SC Edmonds Lake AK-20401-424

SC Eklutna River AK-20402-403

SC Eldred Passage AK-20301-501

SE Elfin Cove AK-10203-805

SC English Bay River AK-20301-014

SC Eyak River AK-20104-002

SE Falls Creek (Gustavus) AK-10302-001

SC Falls Creek (Kachemak) AK-20302-101

SC Finger Lake AK-20505-404

SE Fire Cove AK-10103-005

SC Fire Lake AK-20302-401

IN Fortymile River AK-40104-001

IN Fourth of July Creek AK-40401-001

SC Fourth of July Creek (Seward) AK-20202-002

SC Fox Creek AK-20301-012

SE Freshwater Creek AK-10203-006

SC Fritz Creek AK-20301-009

SC Funny River AK-20302-006

SE Gastineau Channel AK-10301-802

SE Gastineau Channel (Harris and Aurora Harbors) AK-10301-804

SC Gibson Cove AK-20701-605

SC Glacier Creek (Girdwood) AK-20401-414

IN Glacier Creek (Kantishna Creek) AK-40510-002

SC Goodnews River AK-30502-004

SC Goose Bay AK-20505-501

SC Goose Creek AK-20505-008

SC Goose Lake AK-20401-409

SE Greens Creek AK-10204-001
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

44

Region Waterbody Name Assessment Unit ID

SC Gulkana River AK-20102-001

SE Gunnuk Creek AK-10202-001

SC Halibut Cove AK-20301-502

SE Harris River AK-10103-008

SE Hatchery Creek AK-10103-009

SE Hawk Inlet AK-10204-501

SE Herring Bay Creek AK-10102-004

SC Hidden Lake AK-20401-410

SC Hideway (Hidden) Lake AK-20401-010

SE Hoadley Creek AK-10102-005

IN Hogatza River AK-40608-001

SC Homer Harbor AK-20301-505

SC Horseshoe/Island Lakes AK-20701-405

IN Hospital Lake AK-40205-401

SC Iliamna Lake AK-30206-401

IN Illinois Creek AK-40703-001

SE Indian River AK-10203-007

SC Jakolof Bay AK-20301-011

SC Jim Creek AK-20402-004

SC Jim Lake AK-20402-402

SE Johnson Creek AK-10301-009

SC Jones Lake AK-20401-405

SC Juneau Creek AK-20302-003

SC Kachemak Bay AK-20301-504

SC Kalmbach Lake AK-20505-410

SC Kanektok River AK-30502-001

IN Kantishna River AK-40510-001

SC Kasilof River AK-20301-015

SC Kaskanak Creek AK-30206-001

SE Ketchikan Creek AK-10102-006

SE Kendrick Creek AK-10103-010

SE Klehini/Chilkat River AK-10303-001

SC Klutina River AK-20102-002

IN Kobuk River AK-50304-001

SC Kodiak Landfill Creek AK-20701-001

SC Koktuli River - North Fork AK-30302-001

IN Kotzebue AK-50301-401

IN Kotzebue Estuary AK-50403-601

IN Kotzebue Lagoon AK-50301-601

IN Kuparuk River AK-60401-001

SC Kuskokwim River AK-30502-003

SE Lab Bay AK-10103-803

SC Lake Clark AK-30205-401

SE Lake Creek AK-10301-012
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

45

Region Waterbody Name Assessment Unit ID

SC Lake Louise AK-20501-401

IN Lake McDermott AK-60402-402

SC Lake Otis AK-20401-404

IN Lignite Creek AK-40508-002

SC Lilly Lake AK-20701-404

SE Little Auke Creek AK-10301-007

SC Little Campbell Lake AK-20401-413

IN Little Creek, south fork (Nome) AK-50104-009

SC Little Susitna River AK-20505-004

SC Little Tutka Bay AK-20301-510

SC Lost and Found Lake AK-20301-402

SC Lost Harbor AK-30102-501

SC Lower Fire Lake AK-20401-422

SC Lower Talarik Creek AK-30206-002

SE Lutak Inlet AK-10303-602

SE Margaret Creek AK-10102-002

SC Mariner Creek AK-20301-026

SC McClure Bay AK-20202-601

IN McDonald Creek (Salchaket Slough) AK-40507-005

SE McKenzie Inlet AK-10103-002

SC McKinley Lake AK-20201-402

SC McNeil Creek AK-20301-010

SC McRoberts Creek AK-20402-005

SC Meadow Creek AK-20505-006

SC Meadow Lake AK-20401-411

SC Memory Lake AK-20505-405

SE Mendenhall River AK-10301-006

SC Millard Bay AK-20301-508

SC Mills Creek AK-20302-001

IN Minook Creek AK-40404-001

SC Mirror Lake AK-20401-401

SC Mission Lake AK-20701-403

SE Montana Creek (Juneau) AK-10301-002

SC Montana Creek (Talkeetna) AK-20505-008

IN Moose Creek AK-40507-001

SC Moose River AK-20302-009

SE Mosquito Lake AK-10303-401

SC Mud Bay (Homer) AK-20301-520

SC Mulchatna River AK-30302-003

SC Nahodak Creek AK-20301-022

SC Nancy Lake AK-20505-406

SE Nataga Creek AK-10303-003

SC Neptune Bay AK-20301-507

SC Nilumat Creek AK-30502-002
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

46

Region Waterbody Name Assessment Unit ID

SC Ninilchik River AK-20301-005

IN Nome River AK-50104-003

SE North Twin Lakes AK-10301-401

SC Nushagak River AK-30304-002

SE One Mile Creek AK-10303-002

SE Ophir Creek AK-10401-001

SC Orca Inlet AK-20201-801

SC Palmer Creek (Homer) AK-20301-023

SC Passage Canal (Whittier Harbor) AK-20202-501

SE Pavlof River AK-10203-004

SC Paxson Lake AK-20102-401

SC Peters Creek AK-20401-001

SC Peterson Bay AK-20301-503

SE Peterson Creek AK-10301-010

IN Pile Driver Slough AK-40507-002

IN Port Clarence AK-50104-801

SC Port Valdez AK-20201-602

SC Port Valdez Small Boat Harbor AK-20201-603

SC Potato Patch Lake AK-20701-401

SC Potter Creek AK-20401-021

SC Quartz Creek AK-20302-008

IN Quartz Lake AK-40507-401

SC Rabbit Creek AK-20401-007

SC Red Devil Creek AK-30501-001

SC Resurrection Creek AK-20302-002

SC Rice Creek AK-20301-024

SC Robe Lake AK-20201-403

IN Rogge Creek AK-40505-001

SC Ruby Creek AK-20301-025

SC Russian Creek AK-20701-003

IN Sagavanirktok River AK-60402-001

SC Saint Paul Harbor AK-20701-503

SE Salmon Creek AK-10301-011

SC Salmon River (Kinegnak) AK-30502-005

SE Sawmill Creek (Sitka) AK-10203-008

SE Sawmill Creek (Sitka) AK-10203-009

SC Scheffler Creek AK-20202-004

SE Schoenbar Creek AK-10102-007

SC Seldovia Bay AK-20301-602

IN Shaw Creek AK-40507-004

IN Sheenjek River AK-40205-001

SE Shoal Cove AK-10102-503

SE Shoal Creek AK-10102-001

SE Shoemaker Bay AK-10102-603
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

47

Region Waterbody Name Assessment Unit ID

IN Shovel Creek AK-50104-006

IN Sinuk River AK-50104-004

SE Sitka Channel AK-10203-807

SE Sitka Sound AK-10203-806

SE Situk River AK-10401-002

SC Sleepy Bay AK-20202-801

SC Slikok Creek AK-20302-010

IN Snake River AK-50104-002

SC Soldotna Creek AK-20302-004

IN Solomon River AK-50104-001

IN Solomon River, East Fork AK-50104-007

SE South Twin Lakes AK-10301-402

SC Spring Creek AK-20402-006

SC Spring Creek (Seward) AK-20202-003

SC Stariski Creek AK-20301-003

SC Sundi Lake AK-20401-406

SE Sunshine Cove AK-10203-809

SC Sunshine Creek AK-20503-003

IN Suqitughneq River AK-50101-001

SC Susitna River AK-20505-007

SC Sweeper Cove AK-30103-501

SC Sweeper Creek AK-30103-001

SE Taku River AK-10301-018

SC Talkeetna River AK-20503-002

IN Tanana River AK-40506-010

SE Thorne River Estuary AK-10103-603

IN Tisuk River AK-50104-005

SE Tolstoi Bay AK-10103-802

SE Tolstoi Bay Watershed AK-10103-501

SE Tongass Narrows, Refuge Cove AK-10102-801

SC Town Lake AK-20102-402

IN Troutman Lake AK-50101-401

SE Turnaround Creek AK-10203-003

SC Tuxedni Bay AK-20602-601

SC Twitter Creek AK-20301-016

SC Two Moon Bay AK-20201-802

SC Ugashik River AK-30202-001

SC Unalaska Lake AK-30102-401

SC Unnamed Creek (City of Kenai) AK-20302-012

IN Unnamed Lake AK-40506-401

IN Unnamed Lake (Chena Hot Springs Rd.) AK-40506-401

SC Upper Bonnie Lake AK-20402-404

SC Upper Fire Lake AK-20401-407

SC Walby Lake AK-20402-401
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

48

Region Waterbody Name Assessment Unit ID

SC Wasilla Creek AK-20505-002

SC Wasilla Lake AK-20505-402

SE Whale Passage AK-10103-004

SC Whittier Creek AK-20202-001

SC Willow Creek AK-20505-003

SE Winter Harbor AK-10103-006

SC Women’s Bay AK-20701-802

SC Wood River AK-30304-001

SC Woodard Creek AK-20301-001

SE Wrangell Narrows AK-10202-803

IN Wulik River AK-50404-003

SE Zinc Creek AK-10204-002
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

49

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN Category 

4a 40402-001

Birch Creek 

Drainage:- Upper 

Birch Creek; Eagle 

Creek; Golddust 

Creek

North of 

Fairbanks N/A Turbidity Turbidity Placer Mining

Birch Creek has been Section 303(d) listed since 1992 for turbidity as a result of placer mining activity within the drainage. A TMDL was developed and finalized on 

October 10, 1996. In 1998 Birch Creek was removed from the Section 303(d) list. The waterbody remains in Category 4a because a TMDL has been developed for this 

waterbody. Priority actions for this water include continued NPDES inspections to monitor reduction of discharges from active mine sites, particularly during storm 

events; continued implementation of reclamation activities in key areas to address high-priority nonpoint source problems, and monitoring at key sites in the drainage to 

determine the extent of the water quality improvements. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management conducted water quality sampling in 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008, and 2009. 

Data are still being reviewed and will be submitted to DEC when finalized. A review of the data from DEC staff will be completed to determine whether removal from 

the 4a list is warranted.

IN Category 

4a 40506-009 Garrison Slough Eielson Air Force Base N/A

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Polychlorinated 

Biphenyls 

Military Base/ 

Operations

Garrison Slough was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a TMDL was developed in 1996, and the water was removed from the 

Section 303(d) list in 1998. Sediment and fish samples from the slough contained elevated levels of PCBs. The source of the PCBs was traced to a drainage ditch. Eielson 

Air Force Base vacuum dredged and removed most of the upper 18 to 24 inches of soil in the drainage ditch leading into Garrison Slough. Excavation in the drainage 

ditch extended downward until either groundwater was encountered or field screening results indicated PCB concentrations of less than 10 milligrams per kilogram. A 

180-foot section of Garrison Slough was not excavated because an unexploded ordnance was discovered. PCBs at concentrations above DEC cleanup levels are known to 

remain in the slough sediments. Fish tissue sampling has also occurred. A risk assessment was performed to set maximum contamination levels allowable in fish. As a 

temporary measure engineering controls were initiated to prevent fish from entering the slough. An additional munitions sweep was conducted in spring 2007 and 

ensured no other unexploded ordnances existed. Some sediment profiling was conducted in spring 2007, and 2008 and a ―Dredge and Cap‖ removal action is being 

planned. In the 5-year ROD review, completed in 2008, ADEC and EPA recommended additional actions to address the contamination. The planned remedial action is a 

high priority for FFY2011. Long term monitoring will consist of sediment sampling and fish tissue analysis. The TMDL was finalized on September 27, 1996, and the 

waterbody was moved to Category 4a in 1998. The TMDL analysis showed that the remedial actions would result in attaining WQS.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

50

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN Category 

4a 40506-003 Noyes Slough Fairbanks 7 miles Residues Debris Urban Runoff

Noyes Slough was placed on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for debris. A TMDL was developed and finalized for the debris residue in May 2008. Noyes Slough remains on 

the Section 303(d) list of impaired waters for petroleum hydrocarbons and sediment.

SC Category 

4a 30102-604 Akutan Harbor Akutan Island N/A Residues Dissolved Gas

Settleable Solids

Low Dissolved 

Oxygen

Seafood Processing/ 

Waste

Akutan Harbor was originally on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for residues and dissolved gas. EPA issued a TMDL for Akutan Harbor on February 12, 1995. EPA 

finalized the associated NPDES permit for this area in spring 1996. The waterbody was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 1998 and remains in Category 4a. The 

seafood processing facility located in Akutan Harbor is currently under a consent decree that requires a 12% reduction in 5-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) in 

addition to the limitations in the NPDES permit. The associated revised NPDES permit has discharge limits consistent with a TMDL.

SC Category 

4a 20401-004 Campbell Creek Anchorage 10 miles Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

Campbell Creek was placed on the Section 303(d) list in 1990 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. The Campbell Creek water quality assessment completed in 

June 1994 investigated several parameters of concern, including temperature, turbidity, zinc, and lead, but concluded that Campbell Creek was water quality limited for 

FC bacteria only. Water quality sampling was conducted in 2005. A TMDL was developed for FC bacteria and was approved by EPA on June 15, 2006.

SC Category 

4a 20401-402 Campbell Lake Anchorage 125 acres Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

Campbell Lake was placed on the Section 303(d) list in 1990 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. The Campbell Creek water quality assessment, completed in 

June 1994, included an assessment of Campbell Lake. The assessment investigated several parameters of concern, including FC bacteria, lead, and zinc, but concluded 

that Campbell Lake was water quality limited only for FC bacteria. Water quality sampling was conducted in 2005. A TMDL was developed for FC bacteria and was 

approved by EPA on June 15, 2006.

SC Category 

4a 20401-003 Chester Creek Anchorage 4.1 miles

Fecal 

Coliform 

Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria

Urban Runoff, 

Industrial

Chester Creek was placed on the Section 303(d) list in 1990 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. In April 1993, a water quality assessment was completed on 

the Chester Creek drainage. Although the assessment identified several parameters of concern for Chester Creek, it was concluded that the waterbody is water quality 

limited only for FC bacteria. A TMDL for FC bacteria was developed and approved by EPA (dated May 2005).
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

51

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC Category 

4a 20402-002 Eagle River Eagle River N/A

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Ammonia, Chlorine, 

Copper, Lead, Silver

Wastewater Treatment 

Facility

Although Eagle River was never Section 303(d) listed, a TMDL for the waterbody for ammonia and metals was completed by EPA on April 12, 1995, to support the 

NPDES permit for the wastewater treatment facility that discharges to the river.

SC Category 

4a 20401-005 Fish Creek Anchorage 6.4 miles Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

Fish Creek has been on the Section 303(d) list since 1990 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard and the turbidity standard. A 1995 waterbody assessment 

concluded Fish Creek was impaired only for FC bacteria. A TMDL for FC bacteria was developed and approved by EPA in March 2004.

SC Category 

4a 20401-006 Furrow Creek Anchorage 5.3 miles

Fecal 

Coliform 

Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

This waterbody was placed on the 1990 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. Water quality monitoring data from the Municipality of 

Anchorage show that the levels of FC bacteria exceed the designated use criteria for drinking water, primary contact recreation, and occasionally for secondary contact 

recreation. The source of the FC bacteria is presumed to be human-caused from urban runoff sources. A TMDL for FC bacteria was developed and was approved by EPA 

in March 2004.

SC Category 

4a 30101-501 King Cove King Cove N/A Residues Seafood Waste Residue Seafood Processing/ Waste

King Cove was originally on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for residues. On October 10, 1998, EPA completed a TMDL for King Cove. The water was removed from the 

Section 303(d) list in 1998. The original listing was based on historical information provided by the Aleutians East Borough and verified by DEC staff . The information

included citizen complaints and photographs as well as other indications that persistent exceedances of seafood residues were from seafood processing activity adjacent to 

the waterbody. The water remains in Category 4a since a TMDL was developed in 1998.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

52

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC Category 

4a 20505-409 Lake Lucille Wasilla N/A Dissolved Gas

Low Dissolved 

Oxygen Urban Runoff

This waterbody was Section 303(d) listed for dissolved gas (low DO) and nutrients in 1994. A TMDL for Lake Lucille was completed and was approved by EPA (March 

2002). The waterbody was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 2002/2003. Priority actions for this water include completion of the development of a TMDL 

implementation plan, continuation of education on nonpoint source pollution controls, and work with a technical team to determine a water quality sampling plan to 

monitor nutrients and DO levels. Water quality data collected by DEC in 2004, 2005, and 2006 indicate DO levels have been within Alaska WQS ranges during open 

water seasons, but below WQS ranges during times of ice cover.

SC Category 

4a 20401-017 Little Campbell Creek Anchorage 8.3 miles Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

Little Campbell Creek was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. The water quality assessment for the Campbell Creek Drainage 

indicates that Little Campbell Creek is impaired only for FC bacteria. A TMDL for FC bacteria was developed and was approved by EPA in March 2004.

SC Category 

4a 20401-024 Little Rabbit Creek Anchorage 6.2 miles Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

Little Rabbit Creek was placed on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. A TMDL for FC bacteria was developed and was approved 

by EPA in March 2004.

SC Category 

4a

20401-

018 Little Survival Creek Anchorage 3.0 miles Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

Little Survival Creek was placed on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. The source of the FC bacteria exceedances has been 

identified as caused by both human and non-human sources, such as wildlife. A TMDL for FC bacteria was developed and was approved by EPA in March 2004.

SC Category 

4a

20401-

020

Ship Creek Glenn 

Hwy. Bridge. Down to 

Mouth

Anchorage

Glenn 

Hwy. 

Bridge. 

Down to 

Mouth

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

A TMDL for the FC bacteria impairment on Ship Creek was developed and approved by EPA in March 2004. Ship Creek remains Category 5/Section 303(d) listed from 

a petroleum product impairment.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

53

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC Category 

4a 30102-603 South Unalaska Bay Unalaska Island N/A

Residues, Low 

Dissolved 

Oxygen 

Seafood Waste 

Residues, Dissolved 

Gas

Seafood Processing 

Waste

This waterbody was on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for both settleable solids and DO. EPA issued the TMDLs on February 12, 1995, and revised seafood processing 

permits to implement TMDL controls. The water was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 1996. Seafood processors discharging into South Unalaska Bay have been 

implementing TMDL controls. South Unalaska Bay discharge permits are tracked and monitored by DEC and/or EPA to ensure that waterbody recovery continues, and 

the seafood processors are fully implementing their revised permit requirements.

SC Category 

4a 30102-607 Udagak Bay Unalaska Island N/A Residues Settleable Solids Seafood Processing Waste

This waterbody was listed on the Section 303(d) list for seafood waste (settleable solids) in 1994. A nearshore floating pollock processor has discharged seafood waste 

into Udagak Bay. Because of the poor flushing action in Udagak Bay, two piles of fish waste have accumulated at the bottom of the bay. The accumulations resulted in a 

violation of the WQS because the seafood general NPDES permit issued in 1989 did not provide for a ZOD. Enforcement action has been taken against the same seafood 

processors for waste that had accumulated on the shoreline and for floating solids on the receiving water. One floating seafood processor is discharging to this water body. 

The seafood waste residues (waste pile) are decreasing because of better utilization of the fish product. A TMDL was completed for Udagak Bay on September 30, 1998,

and the waterbody was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 1998.

SC Category 

4a 20401-419 University Lake Anchorage 10 acres Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

University Lake has been on the Section 303(d) list since 1990 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. The Chester Creek Drainage Water Quality Assessment,

focusing on an area that included University Lake, was completed in April 1993. It determined that the waterbody was impaired only for FC bacteria. A TMDL for FC

bacteria was developed and was approved by EPA (dated May 2005).

SC Category 

4a 20401-421 Westchester Lagoon Anchorage 30 acres Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Urban Runoff

Westchester Lagoon was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard. The Chester Creek Drainage Water Quality Assessment (which 

also included Westchester Lagoon), from April 1993, indicated Westchester Lagoon was impaired only for FC bacteria. A TMDL for FC bacteria was developed and was 

approved by EPA (dated May 2005).
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

54

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 

4a 10301-005 Duck Creek Juneau N/A

Dissolved Gas, 

Residues,

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances,

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria,

Turbidity

Low Dissolved 

Oxygen, Debris, 

Iron, Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria, Turbidity

Urban Runoff, Landfill, 

Road Runoff, Land 

Development

Duck Creek was Section 303(d) listed for dissolved gas (low DO), residues (debris), metals, FC bacteria, and turbidity in 1994. TMDLs were completed for all pollutants 

(turbidity in 1999, FC bacteria and residues in 2000, and DO and iron in 2001), and Duck Creek was removed from the Section 303(d) list and placed in Category 4a in 

2002/2003. Priority actions identified for this water include implementing the Duck Creek Management Plan and actions to address loadings identified in TMDLs; 

conducting monitoring program to determine whether recovery actions are improving water quality; maintaining stream flow to provide fish rearing habitat in the stream, 

dilute pollutants, and prevent salt water intrusion; and working with the City and Borough of Juneau and others to ensure adequate stormwater permitting practices and 

controls are implemented to restore water quality. According to the 2007 final monitoring report, Duck Creek continued to suffer from low in-stream flow, except for 

during large precipitation events; DO levels continued to regularly fall below state standards for aquatic life; pH values were centered near and at times below the state 

water quality standard of 6.5 for aquatic life, at least during the morning sampling events conducted for this study (variations in pH are expected based on time of day and 

amount of sunlight); and large amounts of iron floc were noted at all sites. Stream cleanup events are typically conducted on a biennial basis to address ongoing residues 

(debris) issues in high-density corridors. The construction of wetland habitat and channelization of the stream above Nancy Street have produced some improvement to 

fish and wildlife habitat, reduced turbidity and iron levels, and raised pH and DO in the downstream reach. However, ongoing land use, ordinance enforcement, and snow 

disposal on private lands adjacent to Duck Creek continue to impair water quality.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

55

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 

4a 10203-005 Granite Creek Sitka N/A Turbidity, Sediment Turbidity, Sediment Gravel Mining

Granite Creek was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for turbidity and sediment. Information showed that the lower 1.5-mile section of the creek is impaired from 

sediment and turbidity. Since a TMDL was completed for Granite Creek and approved by EPA (September 30 2002), the waterbody was removed from the Section 

303(d) list and moved to Category 4a in 2002/2003. Priority actions for this water include implementing actions identified in the Granite Creek TMDL Watershed 

Recovery Strategy and Action Plan (March 2002). Granite Creek has been monitored for turbidity and total suspended solids (TSS) as part of the TMDL Implementation 

Plan through ACWA grants since 2001. The turbidity in Granite Creek has improved significantly since BMP controls at the gravel mining operations have been 

implemented. Practices have included establishing and enforcing a stream setback, recontouring the road and creating vegetated ditches, and stopping operations if a 

certain amount of rain falls in a set time period. The City and Borough of Sitka is ensuring that new developments in the area to make sure it is in compliance with the 

TMDL.

SE Category 

4a 10203-603 Herring Cove of Silver Bay Sitka 102 acres Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Storage from 

former Pulp Mill 

Operations

The Herring Cove segment of Silver Bay has been Section 303(d) listed since 1994. On September 27, 1999, a TMDL was completed for residues for this segment of 

Silver Bay. The Herring Cove segment of Silver Bay was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 2002/2003.

SE Category

4a 10301-004 Jordan Creek Juneau

3 miles from 

tide-water 

upstream

Residues Debris Land Development, 

Road Runoff

A TMDL was developed and approved by EPA for residues on Jordan Creek and is dated May 2005. Since a TMDL was developed and approved for residues Jordan 

Creek was removed from the Section 303(d) and moved to Category 4a for residues. A TMDL for sediment and dissolved gas was completed in 2009. Jordan Creek is 

being moved to Category 4a in 2010.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

56

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 

4a 10301-004 Jordan Creek Juneau

3 miles 

from tidewater 

upstream

Sediment, 

Dissolved Gas

Sediment, Low 

Dissolved Oxygen

Land Development, 

Road Runoff

A TMDL was developed and approved by EPA for residues on Jordan Creek and is dated May 2005. A second TMDL was developed and approved by EPA for dissolved 

gas and sediment in October 2009. Since a TMDL was developed and approved for residues, dissolved gas, and sediment, Jordan Creek was removed from the Section 

303(d) and moved to Category 4a for residues. Populations of coho salmon have dropped from an average of 250 adult returns to 54 in 1996 and 18 in 1997. Jordan Creek 

had been one of the most productive small streams in Juneau and Southeast Alaska for coho salmon, but has experienced a rapid decline. There are serious sediment 

problems in the stream, leading to poor survival of salmon eggs and low oxygen readings in the substrate that are in violation of WQS. The stream is largely spring fed 

and cannot transport large volumes of sediment like the higher gradient systems can. The headwaters of the stream are manipulated with ditches replacing more 

productive habitat and ponds that have been filled in. More recent observations note a problem with iron floc that was not present 10 years ago; however, no hard iron 

data that might document iron exceedances are available. The stream corridor is under rapid development, and the lower section of the creek regularly goes dry. 

Macroinvertebrate bioassessment sampling shows the stream has low diversity and experienced declines during the 1994 to 1996 period. A suite of water quality 

parameters and pollutants, including sediment, pH, DO, and turbidity, were sampled between November 2007 and June 2008. Findings are summarized in the report 

Watershed Protection and Recovery for Jordan Creek, Juneau, Alaska (Nagorski, Hood, Hoferkamp, Neal & Hudson, July 2008). Biennial ―Slash the Trash‖ cleanup 

events occur and two sStormwater BMP demonstration sites were installed in 2009 in areas adjacent to the stream to provide information and education to the general 

public.

SE Category 

4a 10203-602 Klag Bay West Chichagof Island 1.25 acres

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals –

Arsenic, Cobalt, 

Copper, Lead, 

Manganese, 

Mercury, Silver, Zinc

Mining

Klag Bay was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. Past 

mining resulted in the deposition of large amounts of tailings in Klag Bay. A draft 1985 report (never finalized) on Klag Bay, the Klag Bay Study, was prepared by 

USF&WS and indicated high levels of metals from tailings are leaching into the bay. Contaminants are mercury, arsenic, cobalt, copper, lead, and silver. These metals 

caused abnormalities in numerous blue mussels. These abnormalities are considered an impairment of a designated use. A preliminary assessment/site investigation 

(PA/SI) (Ecology & Environment Inc. 1999) and Preliminary Draft Report (Klag Bay waterbody Assessment, Cadmus Group Inc. and CDM, 2008) confirmed lead, 

silver, arsenic, and mercury in the intertidal sediments above NOAA screening benchmarks. A TMDL was developed and approved by EPA on June 1, 2009, for the 

metals impairments.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

57

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 

4a 10301-001 Lemon Creek Juneau N/A Turbidity, Sediment Turbidity, Sediment Urban Runoff, Gravel Mining

This waterbody was placed on the 1990 Section 303(d) list for turbidity, sediment, and concerns about habitat modification. A waterbody recovery plan that included a 

TMDL was prepared and approved for this waterbody in fall 1995, and Lemon Creek was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 1996. Waterbody recovery plan 

implementation began during fall 1995. The University of Alaska Southeast conducted a sediment assessment. This assessment defined concentrations of natural nonpoint 

source sediment within Lemon Creek, where active glacial processes contribute to sediment problems. A paired watershed study was conducted from May 2002 through 

June 2003 to ascertain the roles of glacier processes on watershed sediment discharge. This study concluded that in systems substantially influenced by glacier and mass 

wasting processes, the traditional TSS-Q (total suspended sediment-stream discharge) relationship is not particularly meaningful because some of the most pronounced 

sediment events are associated with processes that are not well correlated with stream discharge. Results of this project will also assist with flood control and bank 

stabilization projects proposed for Lemon Creek. Priority actions for this water include implementing control actions and monitoring as recommended in the TMDL 

document.

SE Category 

4a 10301-014 Pederson Hill Creek Juneau Lower two miles

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria Septic Tanks

Pederson Hill Creek was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard from certain areas of failing onsite septic systems. FC bacteria 

contamination had been well documented since 1985, with values as high as 2400 FC/100 ml reported in 1991. Monitoring conducted from November 2005 through 

summer 2006 found that FC bacteria levels continue to exceed WQS at least on some sites during parts of the year. A final TMDL for FC bacteria was completed for 

Pederson Hill Creek (dated February 2009).

SE Category 

4a 10303-004 Pullen Creek (Lower Mile) Skagway

Lower 

mile of 

Pullen 

Creek

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals – Barium, 

Lead, Zinc Industrial

Pullen Creek has been on the Section 303(d) list since 1990 for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. 

The lower mile of Pullen Creek was previously Section 303(d) listed with the Skagway Harbor listing, but was segmented out into its own listing in the 2006 report. A 

local nonprofit group completed an environmental assessment on the creek, collecting baseline monitoring data on water quality, flow, and sedimentation and developed

an action strategy for Pullen Creek in 2006. Assessment results found no elevated levels of toxics in the water column. Elevated levels of lead, zinc, and barium have been 

found in stream bottom sediments and adjoining banks. Stream banks, are very stable but elevated levels of metals are found near railroad transport areas where ore was 

transported in the past. A waterbody recovery plan with BMPs was completed in 2006, and major riparian restoration projects were completed in summer 2009. A 

TMDL was developed in May 2010 and Pullen Creek was removed from the Section 303(d) list and placed in Category 4a.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

58

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 

4a 10203-601 Silver Bay Sitka 6.5 acres

Residues,

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Pulp Residues, Logs, 

Bark & Woody 

Debris, Sediment 

Toxicity due to 

Wood 

Decomposition Byproducts

Industrial, Historical 

Pulp Mill Activity

Silver Bay was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of residues, toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances, and dissolved gas standards for 

sludge (residues), toxic substances, and dissolved gas (DO). A report titled Final Expanded Site Inspection Report, Alaska Pulp Corporation, Sitka, Alaska, prepared in 

February 1995, substantiated water quality exceedances. Discharges from the mill ceased in March 1993. Based on a DEC June 1993 Water Quality Assessment, the 

pollutant parameters of concern were sludge and DO. A contaminated site Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study for Silver Bay was contracted by Alaska Pulp 

Company from July 1996 to February 1999. DEC issued a Record of Decision ROD in 1999. The remedial action objective identified by the ROD was natural recovery, 

with long-term monitoring. A TMDL was developed for Silver Bay in 2003, with waste load allocations for residues and sediment toxicity. Monitoring data show that 

Silver Bay is no longer impaired for DO. Although DO levels below the limits of the WQS have been observed in deep water between Sawmill Cove and Herring Cove, 

no correlation between these levels and the presence of wood waste has been identified, and no current source of DO depression is known. Therefore, the DO pollutant 

parameter was removed from the Silver Bay listing, and no TMDL will be developed for DO. In 1999, a TMDL was completed for residues for the Herring Cove segment 

of Silver Bay. A TMDL for residues and sediment toxicity was completed in 2003. Based on the 2003 TMDL, Silver Bay was removed from the Section 303(d) list and

placed in Category 4a.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

59

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 

4a 10103-602 Thorne Bay Prince of Wales Island 7.5 acres Residues Bark & Wood Debris Historical Log Transfer Facility

The Thorne Bay historical marine LTF, which consisted of both a nearshore log transfer area and an associated LSA, was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment 

of the residues standard for bark and wood debris. Log transfer and storage activities began in 1962 and caused the accumulation of woody debris on the bottom of the 

head of Thorne Bay. Log transfer and storage activities ended in 2000, and the operator, USFS, does not plan to resume them; all equipment and facilities have been 

removed. A key feature of the recovery of the former log transfer and storage area is the Thorne River, which empties into the bay and deposits sediments onto a large 

sand and gravel delta, where they mix with debris and aid in biological recovery. The Log Storage Area: Dive surveys of the LSA conducted in July 2001 and June 2002 

documented 1.1 acres of bark and wood debris on the marine bottom. Dive surveys in 2003 and 2005 detailed the benthic health of 161 acres of the former LSA. Findings 

included the following: (1) bark debris was mostly decomposed to small fragments and was mixed with natural sediments; (2) the bottom was biologically recovered, 

exhibiting mostly mature ―Stage III‖ biological communities; and (3) the site was an ―extremely healthy coastal embayment.‖ DEC determined, based on the detailed 

benthic assessment, that the residues standard is met in the former LSA. DEC removed the LSA from the Section 303(d) list and placed it in Category 2 in 2004. The LSA 

remains in Category 2 with no known impairments. The Log Transfer Facility: Dive surveys conducted in 1988 and 1990 documented approximately 55 acres of bark 

accumulation in the LTF. Dive surveys of the LTF conducted in July 2001 and June 2002 documented 2.6 and 1.1 acres of bark and wood debris, respectively, on the 

marine bottom. An April 2004 dive survey of the LTF documented 6.5 acres of bark and woody debris. The former LTF remained on the Section 303(d) list for a defined 

area of approximately 35 acres between the LTF shoreline and the boundary of the former LSA established in the 2003-2005 benthic assessment. A December 2007 dive 

survey documented a reduced area of impaired marine bottom of only 7.5 acres and the rest of the previous area of impairment as meeting the residues criterion and 

attaining WQS. These findings suggest that biological recovery is proceeding and is well advanced within the area associated with the LTF. A residues TMDL for the 

Thorne Bay LTF was completed and approved by EPA on May 8, 2007. With the completed TMDLfor residues, the LTF was removed from the Section 303(d) list and 

placed in Category 4a.

SE Category 

4a 10301-017 Vanderbilt Creek Juneau N/A

Turbidity 

Residues 

Sediment

Turbidity, Debris, 

Sediment Urban Runoff

This waterbody was placed on the 1990 Section 303(d) list for turbidity, debris, sediment, and with concerns for habitat modification. Available file information is 

insufficient file to correlate habitat modification with effects to designated uses. A waterbody recovery plan that included a TMDL was prepared during summer 1995. 

EPA approved the TMDL on September 27, 1995, and Vanderbilt Creek was removed from the Section 303(d) list in 1996. Implementation of the waterbody recovery 

plan began during fall 1995. A local nonprofit group secured state fiscal year 2009 grant funds to remove debris from Vanderbilt Creek using a youth group. The project 

will also improve public education and stream stewardship through promotion and implementation of a Stream Cleanup Day. Priority actions for this water include 

implementing control actions and monitoring as recommended in the TMDL document. The Juneau Watershed Partnership received ACWA grant funds to evaluate 

actions and update the recovery plan, develop a water quality monitoring strategy, and conduct a stream cleanup.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

60

Category 4a Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4a Waterbodies – TMDL has been completed, impaired water.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 

4a 10102-601 Ward Cove Ketchikan 250 acres Residues Dissolved Gas

Pulp Residues, Logs, 

Bark & Woody 

Debris, Low 

Dissolved Oxygen

Industrial

Ward Cove has been Section 303(d) listed since 1990. The waterbody was listed for non-attainment of the residues and dissolved gas standards from pulp residues, logs, 

bark and woody debris, and low DO from historical discharges and associated activity from the Ketchikan Pulp Company pulp mill operations. The pulp mill wastewater 

discharges ceased in 1997 and consequently color was removed from the listing. Studies indicated that bottom sediments and accumulations of wood debris contribute to 

seasonal depressions in DO in Ward Cove. Discharge monitoring reports that were required by timber processing discharge permits from 1995 to 2000 showed severe DO

depressions at certain times and locations during stratification of the waterbody in late summer and fall. The deeper layer of water more than 5 to 10 meters was below 

Alaska water quality criteria for DO. These findings provided evidence of an ongoing DO deficit in Ward Cove. The seafood processing facility, which had contributed to 

DO depressions, has ceased discharging and no new sources or residues from this source are present. A surface DO TMDL for Ward Cove was issued by EPA on May 5, 

1994, while the pulp mill was still discharging. Since discharges ceased in 1997 surface water DO has been meeting WQS, Ward Cove has remained Category 5/Section 

303(d) listed for non-attainment of the dissolved gas standard for DO below the pinocline (at depth, i.e., for deeper waters). In 2006 the toxicity in Ward Cove was more 

closely reviewed and more accurately described as ―sediment toxicity‖ from pulp residues, logs, and bark and woody debris operations. An 80-acre area of concern was 

removed from the Section 303(d) listing for sediment toxicity and placed in Category 4b because DEC and EPA have determined that the approved and final ROD of the 

Superfund cleanup for the ―Ketchikan Pulp Company, Marine Operable Unit, Ketchikan, Alaska‖ (March 29, 2000) are adequate ―other pollution controls‖ for sediment 

toxicity in Ward Cove. The Superfund cleanup actions subsequently proved effective, and the area that had been previously impaired from sediment toxicity was moved 

to Category 2. A TMDL for residues and DO was developed and approved by EPA on May 15, 2007. Consequently, Ward Cove has been placed in Category 4a for 

residues and dissolved gas (DO).
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

61

Category 4b Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4b Waterbodies – Impaired but not needing a TMDL; expected to meet standards in a reasonable time period.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern Water Quality Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN Category 

4b 40501-001 Cabin Creek Nabesna 1.5 miles

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

Manganese, Arsenic, 

Iron, Copper & 

Cadmium

Mining

Cabin Creek is located on park lands within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. This waterbody was Section 303(d) listed in 1996 for manganese from the 

Nabesna Mine Site - a patented mining claim area located on private property within the legislative boundary of Wrangell St. Elias National Preserve. The U.S. 

Geological Survey and National Park Service completed a field sampling component of an environmental geochemical site characterization study at the Nabesna Mine in 

1997 (results published in USGS PP 1619). National Park Service and DEC staff visited the Site and waterbody in June 1997 to discuss specifics of a waterbody recovery 

plan with the owner of the Nabesna Mine property. Acidic mill tailings located down slope of the mill building (situated on both private and National Park Servicemanaged lands), may be compromising the water quality of Cabin Creek. Elevated metal levels were detected periodically in the Cabin Creek drainage within the one mile 

reach below the mill tailings.. In 2002/2003 arsenic, iron, copper and cadmium were added to the 1996 Section 303(d) listing. Recovery plan objectives include reconstruction of the existing historic drainage ditches around the tailings to divert stormwater and seasonal snow melt run-off away from (bypass) the tailings. The NPS 

implemented a surface water flow mitigation plan in 2004 and re-directed surface water flows away from the tailings to minimize introduction of metals into Cabin Creek. 

Visual observations by the NPS indicate that the water flow mitigation work has intercepted 80% of the water that previously flowed across the tailings. Water quality 

monitoring was conducted during spring run-off in May 2007. The volume of water flowing across the tailings was substantially diminished, which resulted in lower 

volumes of water carrying dissolved metals. Additional water quality sampling was conducted in 2009 and will be used, among other things, to validate the effectiveness 

of the on-the-ground- controls. Cabin Creek meets the Category 4b criteria and was removed from Category 5 (Section 303(d) list) in 2004. A Category 4b rationale has 

been developed and on record and available upon request. NPS is utilizing the CERCLA process to respond to the release of hazardous substances at the Nabesna Mine 

Site. This response consists of performing a non-time critical removal action (NTCRA). A NTCRA requires the development of an Engineering Evaluation/Cost 

Evaluation (EE/CA). Through this process, current Site conditions and existing data will be duly considered in furthering the removal action selection process. The 

selected removal action will address unacceptable human health and ecological risks associated with Site contaminants.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

62

Category 4b Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4b Waterbodies – Impaired but not needing a TMDL; expected to meet standards in a reasonable time period.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern Water Quality Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC Category 

4b N/A Exxon Valdez Beaches

Prince William 

Sound -Alaska 

Peninsula

23 beaches Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease Petroleum Products

Exxon Valdez 

Crude Oil 

Spill

Exxon Valdez Beaches were Section 303(d) listed as impaired in 1990. The 23 Exxon Valdez affected beaches and adjacent marine waters were later placed in Category 

4b because it was believed that a TMDL process would be redundant to the efforts of the Exxon Valdez Trustee Council (EVOSTC) and restoration projects specified in 

the Exxon Valdez Restoration Plan. In 2007, the EVOSTC funded a pair of projects to identify the areas where oil is most likely to persist and factors responsible for the 

in situ degradation of oil. The project, Assessment of the Areal Distribution and Amount of Lingering Oil in Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska (conducted by 

Michel et al, 2007.), will produce maps showing the probability of lingering oil. A draft final report for this project has been submitted to the EVOSTC but has not been 

published at the time of this report. The second project, Factors Responsible for Limiting the Degradation Rate of Exxon Valdez Oil in Prince William Sound Beaches 

(conducted by Boufadel et al, 2007), found persistent oil in anoxic sediments with low permeability and identified the main factors limiting biodegradation as oxygen and 

nitrogen to a much lesser extent. The study recommends pilot studies of in situ remedial efforts involving surface injection of oxygen and nutrients to accelerate 

biodegradation. The results of this project have been published in Nature Geoscience; however, a final report will not be available through EVOSTC until summer 2010.

This combination of work will assist DEC in more clearly identifying the nature and extent of impairment that still occurs and help to ensure the EVOSTC targets 

remedial efforts to effectively work toward meeting WQS. A Category 4b rationale has been developed; it is on record and available upon request. The Exxon Valdez 

beaches have been placed in Category 4b.

SE Category 

4b 10203-808 East Port Frederick

NE Chichagof 

Island 0.4 acres Residues Bark & Woody Debris

Log Transfer 

Facility

East Port Frederick was Section 303(d) listed for non-attainment of the residues standard for bark and woody debris. Dive survey information documents a significant 

exceedance of the bark accumulation level for the interim intertidal threshold (according to the ATTF Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and 

Monitoring/Reporting Guidelines, October 21, 1985). The operator submitted a remediation plan, which DEC approved on March 14, 2005. The approved remediation 

plan contains adequate institutional controls to minimize future accumulation of bark and wood waste on the bottom and is expected to result in reducing continuous cover 

to less than 1.5 acres within a reasonable period of time. EPA approved removing East Port Frederick from the Section 303(d) list as part of Alaska’s 2004 Integrated 

Report. A March 4 to 6, 2008, bark monitoring survey report documented 1.74 acres of continuous bark debris. A March 24 to 26, 2009, bark monitoring survey 

documented in the survey report a reduction in bark debris to 1.31 acres of continuous bark debris. A Category 4b rationale has been developed; it is on record and 

available upon request.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

63

Category 4b Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 4b Waterbodies – Impaired but not needing a TMDL; expected to meet standards in a reasonable time period.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern Water Quality Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 

4b 10103-031 Fubar Creek Prince of Wales Island N/A Sediment Sediment Timber Harvest

In 1993, the Fubar Creek watershed, located on federal National Forest lands, experienced multiple landslides during heavy rain. This erosion, which resulted from the 

impacts of timber harvests in previous years, added more sediment to the creek than could be washed downstream. This large influx of sediment negatively affected the 

ability of the creek to sustain anadromous fish populations. The waterbody was placed in Category 4b in 1996. No significant commercial harvest activity has occurred 

within the watershed since the USFS deferred the timber harvest in 1995, and the Fubar Creek watershed was not considered for entry during the next planning cycle for 

10-year timber sales. A comprehensive hydrologic condition assessment of the Harris River Basin was completed in 2003. It included a road condition survey that 

identified 1.2 miles of old logging road that were placed in storage in 2006. Channel condition monitoring was conducted for a number of years in Fubar Creek. 

Monitoring assessed trends in geomorphic indicators to determine progress toward channel equilibrium. The watershed-based assessment and the channel condition 

monitoring helped to guide and prioritize restoration activities in the Fubar Creek subwatershed. The Craig Ranger District has actively restored vegetation to stabilize 

landslide areas and the modified the structure and function of riparian timber stands to prevent further sediment input. In 2006 and 2007, USFS restored about 5,500 feet 

of creek by removing large quantities of sediment from the creek bed, reconstructing the channel, and reestablishing large wood jams and pools to enhance anadromous 

fish habitat and spawning. Completion of the 2006 work allowed the first perennial flows under the highway bridge in the 13 years since the 1993 landslides. The last 

phase of active restoration was replacement of the floodplain overflow culverts on the Hydaburg Highway in summer 2008. Monitoring of restoration efforts to restore the 

anadromous fish habitat included measurement of pool and channel morphology, smolt counts, and observations of adult spawning activity in the restored channel. A 

summary of the restoration effort and monitoring results was published in 2008. A Category 4b rationale has been developed; it is on record and available upon request.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

64

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

40506-

007 Chena River Fairbanks 15 miles Sediment Sediment Urban Runoff

Chena River was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for turbidity, petroleum hydrocarbons and oils and grease and for sediment. The identified pollutant source is urban runoff. 

DEC conducted sampling in 2005, 2007, and 2009 for hydrocarbons and sediment. Data have shown that the Chena River met WQS for the petroleum hydrocarbon 

standard. Data are currently being reviewed for the sediment standard, and Chena River remains Section 303(d) listed for sediment.

IN

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

40506-

002

Chena 

Slough Fairbanks 13 miles Sediment Sediment Urban Runoff

Chena Slough was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons and oils and grease and of sediment standards. Information presented 

in the 1994 Statewide Water Quality Assessment survey indicated that a petroleum problem existed and is affecting water quality. File assessment information indicates 

nonpoint source problems result from the surface water runoff, road construction, site clearing, and dewatering activities from gravel operations. Based on best 

professional judgment of DEC staff, this water was listed for petroleum products. DEC conducted water quality testing in 2005, 2007, and 2009. Data have shown that the 

Chena Slough met WQS for the petroleum hydrocarbon standard. Data are currently being reviewed for the sediment standard and Chena Slough remains Section 303(d) 

listed for sediment.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

65

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

40402-

010

Crooked 

Creek

Watershed:

Bonanza

Creek

Crooked

Creek

Deadwood 

Creek 

Ketchem

Creek

Mammoth

Creek

Mastodon

Creek

Porcupine

Creek

North of 

Fairbanks 77 miles Turbidity Turbidity Placer Mining

Crooked Creek watershed was Section 303(d) listed in 1992 for non-attainment of the turbidity standards. A water quality assessment was completed in August 1995. 

Monitoring conducted in the early 1990s documented major improvements in water quality. The assessment called for the development of a waterbody recovery plan to 

restore and maintain habitat quality; however, this plan has not been developed. DEC is currently preparing a monitoring and sampling plan for use in 2011 and 2012. The 

monitoring results will provide current data that will determine whether a TMDL is needed for these waters.

IN

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

40509-

001

Goldstream 

Creek Fairbanks 70 miles Turbidity Turbidity Placer Mining

Goldstream Creek was Section 303(d) listed in 1992 for non-attainment of the turbidity standard. A waterbody assessment was completed and confirmed the pollutant and 

pollutant source. The assessment determined that existing controls were sufficient to address the turbidity issue and that a formal TMDL was not needed. Nevertheless, the 

water quality assessment was prepared (September 30, 1994) and submitted to EPA for technical review for Goldstream Creek. The assessment contains a section on 

development of a management plan and a pollution control strategy. No further sampling has been conducted on this waterbody since the 1996 Section 303(d) listing. 

Continued monitoring is needed to ensure that existing controls are making progress toward attaining WQS. A monitoring and sampling plan was prepared in 2009 and 

will be implemented in 2010.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

66

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

30501-

002

Kuskokwim 

River Red Devil

1,000 feet, 

900 

downriver 

and 100 

feet 

upriver 

from the 

mouth of 

Red Devil 

Creek

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals – Antimony, 

Arsenic, Mercury Mining

Kuskokwim River is placed on the Section 303(d) list of impaired waters in 2010 for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances 

standard for antimony, arsenic, and mercury. Sampling and data collected in 1971, 1979, 1988, and 1999 have documented exceedances for the metals antimony, arsenic, 

and mercury. The Red Devil mine site that is causing this impairment is under consideration for the Superfund National Priorities List.

IN

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

40506-

003 Noyes Slough Fairbanks 7 miles

Sediment, 

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oil & Grease

Residues

Sediment, Petroleum 

Products Urban Runoff

Noyes Slough has been on the Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the sediment, petroleum hydrocarbons and oils and grease, and residues standards for sediment, 

petroleum products, and debris since 1994. Numerous water quality violations have been reported. These violations are a result of debris dumped into the slough. DEC 

completed a debris assessment in 2007. Data from the assessment were used to complete a TMDL for residues in 2008. Water quality data collected in 2005, 2007, and 

2009 determined a TMDL is necessary for the oils and grease and hydrocarbon impairments. Data are being reviewed for the sediment standard impairment.

IN

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

30501-

003

Red Devil 

Creek Red Devil 0.5 mile of creek

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals – Antimony, 

Arsenic, Mercury Inactive Mine

Red Devil Creek is placed on the Section 303(d) list of impaired waters in 2010 for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances 

standard for antimony, arsenic, and mercury. Sampling and data collected in 1971, 1979, 1988, and 1999 have documented exceedances for the metals antimony, arsenic, 

and mercury. The Red Devil mine site that is causing this impairment is under consideration for the Superfund National Priorities List.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

67

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

40510-

003 Slate Creek Denali National Park 2.5 miles Turbidity Turbidity Mining

Slate Creek was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of the turbidity water quality standard because of placer mining activities. No active mining is on Slate 

Creek is occurring, and current National Park Service (NPS) policy will not permit future placer mining. A recovery plan implementation began in August 1997 and 

continued through 2002. The recovery plan included restoration objectives for 4 acres of disturbed upland and stream channel areas in the vicinity of the old antimony 

mine site. Objectives included placement of fill over exposed antimony ore body, reconfiguration of the stream channel, increases in the pH of acidic soils, and 

revegetation of disturbed soils with willow and alder seedlings. Slate Creek was visited by DEC staff and NPS staff in 2006 for a general site review of the recovery plan 

implementation that was completed in 2002. The 2006 site visit revealed that the recovery plan was not successful and that in many areas actions implemented were no 

longer performing their functions properly. NPS staff visited Slate Creek twice in the 2007 field season to gather information to develop an amended recovery concept 

plan. The amended plans have been developed to address the surface and groundwater drainage for erosion control and acidic mitigation. If funding becomes available, 

work will begin in 2010.

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

20505-

401 Big Lake Wasilla 1,250 acres Petroleum Hydrocarbons

Total Aromatic 

Hydrocarbons Motorized Watercraft

Big Lake was Section 303(d) listed in 2006 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons (TAH) water quality standard. DEC collected water quality information at 

Big Lake in the open water months in 2004, 2005 and 2009. Petroleum hydrocarbon (TAH) sampling was conducted in the water column at multiple sites, depths, and 

degrees of motorized watercraft activity throughout the lake. Sampling sites in areas that received heavier use by motorized watercraft consistently exceeded the WQS for 

TAH and the concentrations are likely influenced by a combination of good weather and time of season. The sample events that coincided with the higher mean air 

temperatures are likely also prime recreational dates based on the increased motorized watercraft usage at these times. Specifically, the areas of impairment together equal 

an estimated 1,250 acres and are seasonal in nature, from May 15 to September 15 with particular impairment issues on two holiday weekends (Memorial Day and 

Independence Day). The following specific areas in the east basin are the areas of impairment: harbors and marinas, launch areas, and traffic lanes. Sampling was 

conducted outside these specific areas and exceedances were not identified. Two reports support the impairment listing: Big Lake and Lake Lucille Water Quality 

Monitoring Final Report (September 2, 2004) and Big Lake Water Quality Monitoring Report (June 15, 2006), both prepared by Oasis Environmental, Inc., for DEC. A 

third report, Water Quality Monitoring, Big Lake (January 2009) is currently being finalized by Oasis Environmental for DEC. Although no water quality samples were 

collected below 5 meters, it is considered unlikely that petroleum contaminated sediment is a concern. The source of petroleum is motorized watercraft. Management 

measures will focus on reducing petroleum hydrocarbon inputs at harbors and marinas, launch areas, and traffic lanes of the east basin on busy holiday weekends.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

68

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

30101-

500

Cold Bay King Cove, 

Alaska Peninsula 0.01 acre

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum Products Military, Fuel Storage

Cold Bay was placed on the 1998 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease standard for petroleum products. Enough evidence 

exists to indicate that water quality violations occurred on a persistent (though intermittent) basis. Because the cleanup of petroleum contaminated soils at the Cold Bay 

formally used defense site is considered a high-priority project, USACE completed an assessment and recovery plan. A release investigation of the seep at the foot of the 

high sea bluff found high levels of DRO in beach soils (more than 10,000 parts per million) and petroleum contamination in sediments below the high tide line. Four feet 

of free product was found in a monitoring well in the bluff. The seep weeps a mixture of petroleum and water intermittently along 100 to 300 feet of bluff. In the summer 

of 2002, USACE used a pilot test to evaluate several passive and active technologies for recovering product before it would reach the waters of Cold Bay. The results of 

this test were used to develop a feasibility study to determine the best solution for the beach seeps. The feasibility study was completed in 2003. In accordance with the 

Record of Decision document the USACE agreed to dig and treat petroleum contaminated soil to 15 feet. Contaminated soil below 15 feet will undergo in situ treatment. 

Soil excavation and treatment were conducted in 2006. For the drum disposal and beach seep area, a two-phased approach was selected. In summer 2006, soil 15 feet 

below ground surface and above was excavated and thermally treated. In 2007, USACE installed bioventing, soil vapor extraction (SVE) and high vacuum extraction 

(HVE) wells to continue remediating the area. The amount of contamination discharging to the beach decreased markedly. DEC’s Contaminated Sites Program reports 

that the petroleum sheen is getting smaller every time inspections are made on site. The Contaminated Sites receives monthly reports showing the amount of free product 

recovered and petroleum product degraded as a result of the SVE and HVE systems in operation. In July 2009, the USACE reassessed the petroleum seep at the foot of 

the beach bluff. They found the longitudinal area of the seep has reduced by two-thirds since it was last evaluated in 2007.

SC

Category 5 

Section 

303(d) Listed

20505-

001

Cottonwood 

Creek Wasilla 7 miles Fecal Coliform Bacteria Fecal Coliform Bacteria Urban Runoff, Urban Development

Cottonwood Creek (13 miles) was Section 303(d) listed for non-attainment of the residues standard for foam and debris in 2002/2003. DEC has received numerous 

complaints about foam in Cottonwood Creek and foam was observed in the creek in 1998, 2000, 2001, and 2002. Through grant funds, an intensive water quality 

evaluation was conducted on Cottonwood Creek beginning in September 2004 and continuing through June 2006 for a TMDL assessment. Water quality sampling 

conducted in 2004 and 2005 indicated that the foam present in Cottonwood Creek is most likely naturally occurring. However, hydrologic changes within the watershed 

may be influencing the amount and timing of the foam. Continued water quality sampling in 2006 focused on determining the extent of FC bacteria and temperature 

exceedances discovered during the sampling for foam, as well as further investigation of the foam. Foam and temperature were determined to be naturally occurring hence 

meeting WQS. FC bacteria exceeded WQS, and the source(s) is unknown. Cottonwood Creek is now in Category 2 for attainment of the residues (foam) standard and 

impaired for FC bacteria.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

69

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

30401-

601

Dutch 

Harbor Unalaska Island 0.5 acre

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum Products Industrial, Urban 

Runoff

Dutch Harbor was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons oils and grease standard for petroleum products. An EPA study in 

August 1994, Water Quality Assessment for Greater Unalaska Bay, concluded the waterbody was affected by petroleum products. TMDL assessment began in 2006 . An

existing data compilation was completed, and potential risk sources were identified and assigned priorities. Rigorous field sampling events were conducted in April 2007, 

September 2007, and September 2008 and included water column and sediment samples for BTEX, PAH, and TOC. Results indicate the water column meets WQS, but 

several sediment results had surface sheening in exceedance of the standard. The area of impairment has been further refined and reduced as a result of the field sampling 

and includes two nearshore areas. The area of the harbor that has been found to meet the petroleum hydrocarbons standard has been moved to Category 2. The TMDL for 

the remaining impaired areas is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2010. Implementation will focus on dock and harbor BMPs to minimize any new petroleum 

hydrocarbon inputs to the area.

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

30203-

001 Egegik River Egegik 0.25 mile

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oil & Grease

Petroleum Products

Spills, Fuel Tanks, 

Under-ground Fuel 

Tanks

This waterbody was Section 303(d) listed for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons oils and grease standard for petroleum products in 2002/2003. Contamination 

from at least three major sources has migrated into the groundwater and through soils into the Egegik River: the former locations of two 10,000 gallon gasoline tanks, an 

unlined diesel tank farm, and the underground threaded-coupling pipeline from the tank farm on the bluff that leaked gasoline in April 2001. The area used to house fuel 

tanks and was filled from a barge in the river. Extensive contamination is suspected. Site characterization of the entire site has not been completed. It is believed that the 

old fuel tanks were in place and active from the 1960s through the 1990s and continue to be a problem. The river inundates the soils behind the seawall (which are 

contaminated) regularly when the tide comes up. The monthly high tides usually breach the seawall and flood the area. Fuel from the April 2001 gasoline spill reaches the 

water continuously. It appears that the groundwaters are hydrologically connected to the river and that the fuels will continue to migrate to the river. Photographic

documentation shows petroleum daylighting into the river and sheen on the water. The problem is likely to remain chronic unless the contaminated soils are excavated and 

free product recovery is completed.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

70

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

20201-

401 Eyak Lake Cordova 50 feet of shore-line

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum Products, 

Petroleum 

Contamination, Sheen

Above Ground 

Storage Tanks, Spills

Eyak Lake was placed on the 2002/2003 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons oils and grease standard for petroleum products. Remedial 

actions at the Cordova Electric Power Plant on Eyak Lake, including a groundwater pump-and-treat system and passive product collection, have been effective at 

eliminating sheen on the surface of the lake, which was last observed in 2005. Groundwater treatment and monitoring is anticipated to continue at this site in the future. In 

2005 and 2006, two water quality studies were completed on the lake. Although these studies showed the lake meeting standards, local residents expressed other 

petroleum-related concerns. Additional evaluation was warranted, and a study ,started in 2009 is expected to be completed in 2010. When data collection is complete, a 

determination about whether a TMDL is required will be made.

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

20401-

412

Hood/Spenard 

Lake Anchorage 307 acres Dissolved Gas Low Dissolved Oxygen Urban Runoff, Industrial

Hood/Spenard Lake was originally Section 303(d) listed in 1990 and in1992 for non-attainment of the FC bacteria standard and in 2002/2003 for low DO. The waterbody 

was also placed on the 1992 Section 303(d) list for FC bacteria, lead, nitrates, and phosphates. A TMDL was developed for FC bacteria in 1997, and the waterbody 

remained on the Section 303(d) list (Category 5) for dissolved gas (i.e., low DO). A later DEC water quality assessment also assessed the four other pollutants of concern:

petroleum, nitrates, lead, and ammonia. However, the data indicated that there are no persistent violations of these parameters. Priority actions identified for this water 

include Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (TSAIA) shunting away much of the stormwater from the tarmac and installation of retention ponds to treat 

stormwater coming from the parking lots; future construction to improve drainage in the area; tracking of ongoing stormwater rerouting projects and water quality 

sampling being done by TSAIA; and conducting monitoring of nutrients and stormwater BMP effectiveness. TSAIA submitted and DEC approved a waterbody recovery 

plan for Hood/Spenard Lake. The recovery plan has three components: (1) a reduction in the amount and placement of urea, (2) an increase in glycol recovery, and (3) 

diversion of stormwater contaminated by glycol and nutrientsstormwater from the waterbody. Review of water quality data from 2000 to 2009 shows that the waters are 

meeting the FC bacteria standard and Hood/Spenard Lake is in Category 2 for meeting the FC bacteria standard.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

71

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

30102-

602

Iliuliuk

Harbor Unalaska Island

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum Products Urban Runoff

Iliuliuk Harbor was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons oils and grease standard for petroleum products. An EPA study in 

August 1994, Water Quality Assessment for Greater Unalaska Bay, concluded the waterbody was affected by petroleum products. TMDL assessment began in 2006. An

existing data compilation was completed, and potential risk sources were identified and assigned priorities. Rigorous field sampling events were conducted in April 2007, 

September 2007, and September 2008 and included water column and sediment samples for BTEX, PAH, and TOC. Results indicate the water column meets WQS, but 

several sediment results had surface sheening in exceedance of the standard. The area of impairment has been further refined and reduced as a result of the field sampling 

and includes nearshore areas around docks and harbors. The TMDL is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2010. Implementation will focus on dock and harbor BMPs to 

minimize any new petroleum hydrocarbon inputs to the area.

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

20402-

001

Matanuska 

River Palmer 1⁄2 mile Residues Debris Landfill

This segment of the Matanuska River was placed on the 2002/2003 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the residues standard for debris. An active open dump is

located on and in the Matanuska River just north of Eagle Drive in Palmer. Numerous derailed railroad cars are visible in the river and riparian area. The main site of 

concern is the active dump. Visible contents of the dump at the time of the inspection were a minimum of 20 vehicles, household refuse and items, fuel cans, possible 55-

gallon drums with unknown contents, grass cuttings, and scrap metal and other debris. Debris continues in the river and riparian area upstream for approximately 1/2 mile. 

River channels run through and next to the dump at all times of the year. Visible sheens have been observed in the river. This open dump is not only an immediate threat 

to the surface water quality of the Matanuska River, but is within the Drinking Water Protection Area for a minimum of three public water systems. In August 2004, DEC 

conducted a site assessment study. Activities included characterizing and quantifying the debris, mapping the site, and conducting surface water, sediment, and soil 

samples. No hazardous or petroleum contamination was discovered. After characterizing the debris, options were developed for possible debris removal as part of the 

study. Following subsequent meetings with involved parties, in March 2005 USACE issued a jurisdictional declaration that the railroad cars that are below ordinary high 

water serve as bank stabilization material. As such, these items are no longer in violation of WQS. However, the remaining debris on the slope above ordinary high water

has a potential of entering the water column, and the upper layers are not considered bank stabilization material. The Alaska Railroad Corporation, as the property owner,

needs to work with DEC Solid Waste staff on developing a plan with goals and a timeline delineating its commitment to cleaning up the site.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

72

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

30101-

502 Popof Strait East Aleutians Borough 5 miles Residues Seafood Waste Residue Seafood Processor

Popof Strait was Section 303(d) listed in 1996 for non-attainment of the residues standard from seafood waste residues. Information provided by the Aleutians East 

Borough, and verified by DEC staff, included citizen complaints, photographs, and other indications that persistent exceedances of ―seafood residue‖ occur from a 

seafood processor operating adjacent to the waterbody. The seafood processing facility located in Sand Point has installed a fish meal plant that reduces the discharge of 

solid wastes to Popof Strait. The company is currently under a consent decree for BOD5 covering this facility (as well as the one in Akutan) where there is a BOD5 limit 

for the Sand Point facility. An April 2000 dive survey report documented 3.0 acres of residues in excess of the permitted facility’s authorized 1-acre ZOD. No more recent 

dive survey information is available.

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

30102-

409

Red Lake 

Anton Road 

Ponds

Kodiak 2.0 acres

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Iron, 

Manganese Urban Runoff

Red Lake Anton Road Ponds were placed on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard 

for metal. Based on a 1992 memorandum released by DEC Kodiak Field Office, Red Lake lies less than 200 feet from a Navy landfill. This landfill was constructed 

without a liner or leachate collection system. Landfill waste, which may include solvents, paints, used oils, and contaminated fuel, occasionally leaches into Red Lake and 

two other small ponds near Anton Road. These two ponds are highly colored by bright orange-red iron precipitates caused by the oxidation of the leachate. Lake sediment 

samples were found to contain 8.6% iron. Chemical pollutants were documented at low levels in the lake and in the bottom sediments. DEC staff reviewed four reports 

from 1996 and 1997. The data presented in the reports are the best available. DEC concluded that (1) Red Lake clearly appears to have exceedances of WQS for iron and 

manganese because of human actions; (2) no existing controls are in place to ensure that the WQS will be met in a reasonable time period; (3) because the reports did not 

present any information showing levels of iron and manganese in groundwater above the landfill, no information shows that the abandoned landfill is not the source of 

these metals; and (4) although there were other parameters of concern observed in previous sampling, the available information indicates that Red Lake should only be 

listed for manganese and iron.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

73

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

20401-

020

Ship Creek 

Glenn Hwy. 

Bridge. 

Down to 

Mouth

Anchorage

11 miles, 

Glenn 

Hwy. 

Bridge. 

Down to 

Mouth

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum Products Urban Runoff

This segment of Ship Creek was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons and oils and grease standard. Based on the FC bacteria

monitoring data from 1989 to 1994 provided by the Municipality of Anchorage, the water quality criteria for drinking water and contact recreation were exceeded at 

various times. Petroleum products floating on groundwater are moving from the site toward Ship Creek and threaten the waterbody. In 1992, FC bacteria was added to the 

Section 303(d) listing as an impairing pollutant. The final FC bacteria TMDL was approved by EPA in May 2004. Ship Creek remains Section 303(d) listed for petroleum 

product impairment. EPA currently has a consent decree with the Alaska Railroad Corporation which involves water quality monitoring for petroleum. The results of the 

monitoring program will assist will assist DEC in determining the next best recovery actions for Ship Creek, including the possible development of a TMDL or similar 

recovery plan. Sampling was conducted in 2005 and 2006 as part of the consent decree.

SE

Category 5 

Section 

303(d) Listed

10203-

002

Katlian 

River

N. of Sitka, 

Baranof Island 4.5 miles Sediment, Turbidity Sediment, Turbidity Timber Harvest

Katlian River was Section 303(d) listed as impaired in 1998 for non-attainment of the sediment and turbidity standards. Past land use activities have created a number of 

concerns about water quality, and fish habitat. The harvest of riparian timber and location and lack of maintenance of the road system created the following concerns: 

decreased channel stability, landslides and small slope failures, increased sediment levels, loss of aquatic habitat, siltation of holding pools for migrating salmon, and 

alteration of watershed hydrology. Watershed effects resulted in use impairment for aquatic life. USFS (in cooperation with EPA and DEC) is considering conducting indepth turbidity monitoring and aquatic habitat condition assessments to determine the validity of the impaired water body listing for this watershed. If the assessment 

indicates that the water body was erroneously listed, the water body will be moved to Category 2. If water quality or habitat impairments are identified in the assessment, 

restoration plans to establish pollution control requirements will be developed.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

74

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

10103-

504

Salt Chuck 

Bay

Kasaan Area, 

Prince of Wales 

Island

0.03 

square 

miles

Toxic & Other

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Copper Mining

Salt Chuck Bay is Section 303(d) listed in 2010 for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. The Salt Chuck 

Mine was listed on the Federal Agency Hazardous Waste Compliance Docket and published in the Federal Register on June 27, 1997, because studies indicated physical 

and chemical hazardous to the public and environment. At the request of USFS, URS Engineering initiated an Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis of the site in 2002 

and conducted additional data collection and investigation in 2006. On September 23, 2009, the Salt Chuck Mine was proposed for addition to the EPA National Priorities 

List. Copper concentrations found in the intertidal water column exceed state WQS. In addition sediment/tailings found in the intertidal zone exceed state guidelines for 

sediment quality.

SE

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

10303-

601

Skagway 

Harbor Skagway 1.0 acre

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Cadmium, 

Copper, Lead, Mercury, 

Zinc

Industrial

Skagway Harbor has been on the Section 303(d) list since 1990 for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. 

A 1984 draft report from USF&WS titled Trace Metals Contamination at an Ore Loading Facility in Skagway, Alaska, indicated that trace metals contamination is due to 

an ore loading facility in Skagway. Elevated levels of lead, zinc, cadmium, copper, and mercury in marine sediments were found to exceed DEC (SPAR) values of the 

control area. Additionally, in fauna found in the marine sediments were much reduced and a reduction in fauna and biodiversity was correlated with concentrations of lead 

and zinc in marine sediment. These effects are considered to be an impairment to the designated use: aquatic life. Additional sampling in 2008 found metals in the marine 

sediment to be below recommended action levels and petroleum constituents above action levels. A TMDL is being prepared to address the impairment.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

75

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

Listed

10103-

010

Unnamed 

Creek, 

Sweetwater 

Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, 

ADF&G 

Stream 3027

(Stream 3)

Prince of Wales 

Island 0.4 mile

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Aluminum, 

Cadmium, Copper, Iron Road Construction

Stream 3 was placed on the 2010 list for Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the toxic & other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. 

Studies adopted by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) and the Western Federal Lands Highway Division (WFLHD) of the Federal Highway 

Administration (FHWA) indicate high levels of metals leaching into the stream as a result of acid rock drainage from road construction. Contaminants exceeding WQS 

and the NOAA screening benchmarks include aluminum, cadmium, copper, and iron. These exceedances are considered an impairment of a designated use.

SE

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

listed

10103-

012

Unnamed 

Creek, 

Sweetwater 

Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, 

ADF&G 

Stream 3021

(Stream 6)

Prince of Wales 

Island 1.14 mile

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances, 

Dissolved 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals –

Aluminum, Cadmium, 

Copper, Iron, 

Manganese, Sulfate

Road Construction

Stream 6 was placed on the 2010 list for Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the toxic & other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. 

Studies adopted by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) and the Western Federal Lands Highway Division (WFLHD) of the Federal Highway 

Administration (FHWA) indicate high levels of metals leaching into the stream as a result of acid rock drainage from road construction. Contaminants WQS and the 

NOAA screening benchmarks include aluminum, cadmium, copper, iron, and manganese. Sulfate is included in the list of contaminates for this waterbody. These 

exceedances are considered an impairment of a designated use.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

76

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

listed

10103-

013

Unnamed 

Creek, 

Sweetwater 

Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, 

ADF&G 

Stream 3019 

tributary

(Stream 7)

Prince of Wales 

Island 0.3 mile

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Aluminum, 

Cadmium, Copper, 

Iron, Manganese

Road Construction

Stream 7 was placed on the 2010 list for Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the toxic & other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. 

Studies adopted by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) and the Western Federal Lands Highway Division (WFLHD) of the Federal Highway 

Administration (FHWA) indicate high levels of metals leaching into the stream as a result of acid rock drainage from road construction. Contaminants WQS and the 

NOAA screening benchmarks include aluminum, cadmium, copper, iron, and manganese. These exceedances are considered an impairment of a designated use.

SE

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

listed

10103-

014

Unnamed 

Creek, 

Sweetwater 

Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, 

ADF&G 

Stream 3019

(Stream 8)

Prince of Wales 

Island 0.3 mile

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Cadmium, 

Copper, Iron, 

Manganese, Nickel, Zinc

Road Construction

Stream 8 was placed on the 2010 list for Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the toxic & other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. 

Studies adopted by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) and the Western Federal Lands Highway Division (WFLHD) of the Federal Highway 

Administration (FHWA) indicate high levels of metals leaching into the stream as a result of acid rock drainage from road construction. Contaminants WQS and the 

NOAA screening benchmarks include cadmium, copper, iron, manganese, nickel, and zinc. These exceedances are considered an impairment of a designated use.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

A. Waterbody Categories 2 through 5

77

Category 5/Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Category 5 Waterbodies – Impaired by pollutant(s) for one or more designated uses and requiring a TMDL. CWA Section 303(d) Listed.

Region Category Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE

Category 5 

Section 303(d) 

listed

10103-

015

Unnamed 

Creek, 

Sweetwater 

Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, 

ADF&G 

Stream 3017 

tributary

(Stream 9)

Prince of Wales 

Island 0.8 mile

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances, 

Dissolved 

Inrganic 

Substances

MetalsAluminum, Cadmium, 

Copper, Iron, 

Manganese, Nickel, 

Zinc, Sulfate

Road Construction

Stream 9 was placed on the 2010 list for Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the toxic & other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. 

Studies adopted by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) and the Western Federal Lands Highway Division (WFLHD) of the Federal Highway 

Administration (FHWA) indicate high levels of metals leaching into the stream as a result of acid rock drainage from road construction. Contaminants WQS and the 

NOAA screening benchmarks include aluminum, cadmium, copper, iron, manganese, nickel, and zinc. Sulfate is included in the list of contaminants present on this 

waterbody. These exceedances are considered an impairment of a designated use.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

B. Waterbodies Removed From the Section 303(d) List

78

APPENDIX B Waterbodies Removed From the 

Section 303(d) List

Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies in 2008 Removed from the List in 2010

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies in 2008. Removed from the List in 2010.

Region New 

Category

Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard

Pollutant 

Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN Category 2 40510-005 Caribou Creek Denali National 

Park 16.1 miles Turbidity Turbidity Mining

REASON FOR REMOVAL: No impairment exists from turbidity; waterbody is attaining water quality standards.

Caribou Creek was included on the 1994 Section 303(d) list for turbidity from past mining activity within Denali National Park and Preserve. The waterbody lost its 

sinuosity along segments of the watershed. Currently there is no active mining on Caribou Creek and current National Park Service (NPS) policy will not permit 

future placer mining. A site visit with NPS, EPA, and DEC was conducted in 2009 to review the progress of previous reclamation efforts and to assess any areas 

requiring additional reclamation activities. NPS established seven cross sections for floodplain design purposes. Topographic monitoring was conducted before and 

after the establishment of the seven cross sections. Channel locations and sinuosity were surveyed with a global positioning system (GPS), and water discharge was 

measured. Analysis and evaluation of site and data concluded that Caribou creek is meeting the turbidity standard, although further work would be beneficial. 

Therefore, a draft recovery plan has been prepared to reconstruct the floodplain, rebuild the channel(s), and provide for more natural overbank flooding and 

deposition. The reconstruction will be followed by a revegetation effort. If funding becomes available, work is to begin in 2010.

IN Category 2 40506-007 Chena River Fairbanks 15 miles

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products Urban Runoff

REASON FOR REMOVAL: No impairment exists from petroleum hydrocarbons; waterbody is attaining water quality standards.

Chena River was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for turbidity, petroleum hydrocarbons oils and grease, and sediment. The identified pollutant source is urban runoff. 

DEC conducted sampling in 2005, 2007, and 2009 for hydrocarbons and sediment. Data have shown that the Chena River met WQS for the petroleum hydrocarbon 

standard. Data are currently being reviewed for the sediment standard.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

B. Waterbodies Removed From the Section 303(d) List

79

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies in 2008. Removed from the List in 2010.

Region New 

Category

Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard

Pollutant 

Parameters Pollutant Sources

IN Category 2 40506-002 Chena Slough Fairbanks 13 miles

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products Urban Runoff

REASON FOR REMOVAL: No impairment exists from petroleum hydrocarbons; waterbody is attaining water quality standards.

This waterbody was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons oils and grease standard and the sediment standard. Information 

presented in the 1994 Statewide Water Quality Assessment survey indicated that a petroleum problem existed and is affecting water quality. File assessment 

information indicates nonpoint source problems result from the surface water runoff, road construction, site clearing, and dewatering activities from gravel operations. 

Based on best professional judgment of DEC staff, this water was listed for petroleum products. DEC conducted water quality testing in 2005, 2007, and 2009. Data 

have shown that the Chena Slough met WQS for the petroleum hydrocarbon standard. Data are currently being reviewed for the sediment standard.

SC Category 2 20505-001 Cottonwood 

Creek Wasilla Entire 13 miles Residues Foam & Debris

Urban Runoff, 

Urban 

Development

REASON FOR REMOVAL: No impairment exists from residues; waterbody is attaining water quality standards.

Cottonwood Creek (13 miles) was Section 303(d) listed for non-attainment of the residues standard for foam and debris in 2002/2003. DEC has received numerous 

complaints about foam in Cottonwood Creek, and foam was observed in the creek in 1998, 2000, 2001, and 2002. Foam is a recurring problem, with no existing 

controls to address it. Through grant funds, an intensive water quality evaluation was conducted on Cottonwood Creek from September 2004 through June 2006 for a 

TMDL assessment. Water quality sampling conducted in 2004 and 2005 indicated that the foam present in Cottonwood Creek is most likely naturally occurring. 

However, hydrologic changes within the watershed may be influencing the amount and timing of the foam. Water quality sampling in 2006 focused on determining 

the extent of FC bacteria and temperature exceedances discovered during the sampling for foam. Additional bacteria and temperature sampling is scheduled for 

2007/2008 to determine potential sources and stretches of possible impairment. Data will be used to develop a recovery plan.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

B. Waterbodies Removed From the Section 303(d) List

80

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies in 2008. Removed from the List in 2010.

Region New 

Category

Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard

Pollutant 

Parameters Pollutant Sources

SC Category 2 30401-601 Dutch Harbor Unalaska 

Island 0.5 acre

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products

Industrial, 

Urban Runoff

REASON FOR REMOVAL: No impairment exists from petroleum hydrocarbons for much of the harbor area; waterbody is attaining water quality 

standards.

Dutch Harbor was Section 303(d) listed in 1994 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease standard for petroleum products. An EPA study in 

August 1994, Water Quality Assessment for Greater Unalaska Bay, concluded the waterbody was affected by petroleum products. TMDL assessment began in 2006.

An existing data compilation was completed, and potential risk sources were identified and assigned priorities. Rigorous field sampling events were conducted in 

April 2007, September 2007, and September 2008 and included water column and sediment samples for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX);

polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH); and total organic carbon (TOC). Results indicate the water column meets WQS but several sediment results had surface 

sheening in exceedance of the standard. The original area of impairment has been reduced as a result of the field sampling and includes two nearshore impaired areas

and some areas of the harbor found to meet WQS. The TMDL for the remaining impaired areas is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2010. Implementation will 

focus on dock and harbor BMPs to minimize any new petroleum hydrocarbon inputs to the area.

SC Category 2 30102-602 Iliuliuk Bay Dutch Harbor

Petroleum 

Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum 

Products Urban Runoff

REASON FOR REMOVAL: No impairment exists from petroleum hydrocarbons for much of the bay area; waterbody is attaining water quality 

standards.

Iliuliuk Bay was Section 303(d) listed in 1990 for non-attainment of the petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease standard for petroleum products. An EPA study in 

August 1994, Water Quality Assessment for Greater Unalaska Bay, concluded the waterbody was affected by petroleum products. TMDL assessment began in 2006 

with completing an existing data compilation and identifying and prioritizing potential risk sources. Rigorous field sampling events were conducted in April 2007 and 

September 2007 and included water column and sediment samples for BTEX, PAH, and TOC. All sample results for Iliuliuk Bay indicate the water and sediments are 

meeting standards for petroleum hydrocarbons. DEC is removing Iliuliuk Bay from the Category 5/Section 303(d) list based on these data in 2010.

SE Category 4a 10301-004 Jordan Creek Juneau

3 miles 

from tidewater upstreamSediment, 

Dissolved Gas

Sediment, Low 

Dissolved Oxygen

Land 

Development, 

Road Runoff

REASON FOR REMOVAL: TMDL developed and approved for sediment and dissolved gas (low insterstitial DO).

A TMDL was developed and approved by EPA (May 2005) for residues on Jordan Creek. Because the waterbody has an approved TMDL for residues, Jordan Creek 

was removed from the Section 303(d) and moved to Category 4a for residues. Also, a TMDL was developed and approved by EPA (October 2009) for dissolved gas 

and sediment on Jordan Creek.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

B. Waterbodies Removed From the Section 303(d) List

81

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies in 2008. Removed from the List in 2010.

Region New 

Category

Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard

Pollutant 

Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 4a 10203-602 Klag Bay West Chichagof 

Island 1.25 acres

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals –

Arsenic, cobalt, 

copper, lead, 

manganese, 

mercury, silver, 

zinc

Mining

REASON FOR REMOVAL: TMDL developed and approved for metals in the intertidal sediments.

Klag Bay was placed on the 1996 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for metals. Past 

mining resulted in the deposition of large amounts of tailings in Klag Bay. A draft 1985 report (never finalized) on Klag Bay, the Klag Bay Study, was prepared by 

USF&WS and indicated high levels of metals from tailings are leaching into the bay. Contaminants are mercury, arsenic, cobalt, copper, lead, and silver. These 

metals caused abnormalities in numerous blue mussels. These abnormalities are considered an impairment of a designated use. A 1998 preliminary assessment 

confirmed lead, silver, arsenic and mercury in the intertidal sediments above NOAA screening benchmarks. A TMDL was developed and approved by EPA on June 

1, 2009, for the metals impairments.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

B. Waterbodies Removed From the Section 303(d) List

82

Alaska’s 2010

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

Section 303(d) Listed Waterbodies in 2008. Removed from the List in 2010.

Region New 

Category

Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location Area of Concern

Water Quality 

Standard

Pollutant 

Parameters Pollutant Sources

SE Category 2 10203-001 Nakwasina 

River

Baranof Island, 

Sitka 8 miles Sediment, Turbidity

Sediment, 

Turbidity Timber Harvest

REASON FOR REMOVAL: No impairment exists; waterbody is attaining water quality standards.

Nakwasina River was placed on the 1998 Section 303(d) list for non-attainment of the sediment and turbidity standards. Past land use activities had created a number 

of concerns about water quality and fish habitat. The harvest of riparian timber and the location and lack of maintenance of the road system created the following 

conditions: decreased channel stability, landslides and small slope failures, increased sediment levels, loss of aquatic habitat, siltation of holding pools for migrating 

salmon, and alteration of watershed hydrology. Watershed effects resulted in use impairment for aquatic life. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) submitted a 2-year 

Water Quality and Aquatic Habitat Restoration Assessment in February 2009 and recommended removal from the 303(d) list based on its results. The data 

demonstrate that turbidity levels have decreased below state WQS. The waterbody was moved to Category 2 in 2010.

SE Category 4a 10303-004 Pullen Creek 

(Lower Mile) Skagway

Lower mile 

of Pullen 

Creek

Toxic & Other 

Deleterious 

Organic and 

Inorganic 

Substances

Metals – Barium, 

Lead, Zinc Industrial

REASON FOR REMOVAL: TMDL developed in May 2010 and approved for metals.

Pullen Creek has been on the Section 303(d) list since 1990 for non-attainment of the toxic and other deleterious organic and inorganic substances standard for 

metals. The lower mile of Pullen Creek was previously Section 303(d) listed with the Skagway Harbor listing, but was segmented out into its own listing in the 2006 

report. A local nonprofit group completed an environmental assessment on the creek, collecting baseline monitoring data on water quality, flow, and sedimentation 

and developed an action strategy for Pullen Creek in 2006. Assessment results found no elevated levels of toxics in the water column. Elevated levels of lead, zinc,

and barium have been found in stream bottom sediments and adjoining banks. Stream banks, are very stable but elevated levels of metals are found near railroad 

transport areas where ore was transported in the past. A waterbody recovery plan with BMPs was completed in 2006, and major riparian restoration projects were 

completed in summer 2009. A TMDL was developed in May 2010 and Pullen Creek was removed from the Section 303(d) list and placed in Category 4a.
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

C. TMDL Schedule and Factors

83

APPENDIX C TMDL Schedule and 

Factors

Alaska TMDL Completion Date Schedule (Revised 10/09)

NOTE: The years shown are from July 1 to June 30. It is expected that for any given year, the 

TMDL will be completed by June 30 of the year that identifies the row in which the waterbody is 

shown. During TMDL development, it may be determined that a TMDL is not needed if the 

waterbody has recovered or adequate restoration actions are ongoing.

Completion Date Southeast Southcentral Interior/North Slope

2010 Chena River 

Dutch Harbor Chena Slough 

Iliuliuk Harbor

2011 Big Lake Noyes Slough (sediment, 

petroleum hydrocarbons)

Skagway Harbor Slate Creek 

Egegik River Eyak Lake

Ship Creek (Petroleum)

Matanuska River

2012 Katlian River Popof Strait

Red Lake/Anton Pond Goldstream Creek

Hood/Spenard Lake

Cold Bay

2013 Cottonwood Creek

2014 Salt Chuck Bay Crooked Creek Watershed

Coffman Cove Creeks Kuskokwim River

Red Devil Creek

Factors Considered in Alaska’s 2010 TMDL Schedule Revision

All Alaska Category 5 Section 303(d) listed waters for the 2010 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring 

and Assessment Report are scheduled for development of TMDL between 2010 and 2014. Any Section 

303(d) listed waters that are impaired from an active log transfer facility (LTF) will be subject to a 

remediation plan in an enforceable permit to meet the water quality goals of the waterbody. The TMDLs 

for these waterbodies are scheduled based on DEC’s consideration of the factors listed below. These 

factors are not necessarily listed by priority and may be used in conjunction with one another, combined 

with other project management decisions, or both.
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C. TMDL Schedule and Factors

84

Severity and persistence of pollutant sources, exceedances of WQS, and/or impacts to the 

beneficial uses of the waterbody 

Significance of the waterbody in terms of public and resource values 

Degree of public, industry, and agency interest in accomplishing the TMDL so that 

allocations and required controls or permit limits can be known

Applicability of existing pollution controls, waterbody recovery plans, and NPDES discharge 

permits

Technical feasibility and difficulty of developing the TMDL. Development of some TMDLs 

requires much more time and resources than for other TMDLs, and agency resources have 

annual limits of time available for TMDL development. Factors that increase the amount of 

time include waterbodies with uncommon types of impairments for which model TMDLs are 

not available; TMDLs that require complex models and loading calculations; and TMDLs on 

waters with many stakeholders who will be significantly affected by loading allocations.

Availability and accuracy of water quality information necessary for assessing the water and 

making loading determinations. TMDLs for which little data are available are scheduled later 

so that essential data can be acquired.

Waters where pilot BMPs or other controls are being implemented and monitored. TMDL 

development on these waters may be delayed so that improved loading allocations can be 

made based on performance of the controls.

Likelihood that proposed restoration efforts might occur in a reasonable time period that, if 

they occur, may make TMDL development unnecessary

Development of stakeholder plans that may satisfactorily substitute for (or supplement) a 

waterbody’s TMDL. Examples include a contaminated site remediation plan or another 

agency’s assessment and restoration plan. TMDL development may be scheduled to occur 

shortly after completion of such plans if they will include information that satisfies what is 

required in the TMDL.

Development of multiple TMDLs as part of a unified effort. These situations include 

development of TMDLs that address similar pollutants and approaches, waters in the same 

watershed or area, same stakeholders, and similar restoration actions. 

The paragraphs below describe important terms.

TMDL—A total maximum daily load plan is a ―pollution budget‖ designed to restore the health of a 

waterbody. A TMDL calculates the amount of a specific pollutant that a waterbody can receive and still 

maintain Alaska’s WQS. 

TMDL loading allocation—A loading allocation is the amount of a pollutant allowed at any particular 

time as part of a TMDL plan for waterbody recovery.
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C. TMDL Schedule and Factors

85

NPDES Permits or APDES limits—National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit limits and 

Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System limits are created for the amount of discharge a 

wastewater facility can send out into the environment and still maintain Alaska’s WQS.

WQS—The Alaska state water quality standards are guides to help create programs that protect and 

restore water quality in Alaska. These programs include the impaired water body list and the nonpoint

source pollution program. The standards also help set the limits for state and federal discharge permits 

and cleanup standards for contaminated sites and landfills. 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

D. Logic Flow Diagram 

86

APPENDIX D Logic Flow Diagram

Figure D-1 Logic Flow Diagram for Making Category Determinations
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

E. Alaska’s List of Category 5/Section 303(d) Impaired Waters

87

APPENDIX E List of Alaska’s Category 5/

Section 303(d) Impaired Waters

NOTE: This appendix is an abbreviated and alphabetical list by Alaska regions of the Category 5/Section 303(d) list of impaired waters. The 

waters are listed alphabetically by region: Interior (IN), Southcentral (SC), and Southeast (SE).

# Region

Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

1 IN 40506-007 Chena River Fairbanks 15 miles Sediment Sediment Urban Runoff

2 IN 40506-002 Chena Slough Fairbanks 13 miles Sediment Sediment Urban Runoff

3 IN 40402-010

Crooked Creek Bonanza 

Crooked Deadwood 

Ketchem Mammoth 

Mastodon Porcupine

North of 

Fairbanks 77 miles Turbidity Turbidity Placer Mining

4 IN 40509-001 Goldstream Creek Fairbanks 70 miles Turbidity Turbidity Placer Mining

5 IN 30501-002 Kuskokwim River Red Devil 0.2 mile

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

Antimony, Arsenic, 

Mercury Mining

6 IN 40506-003 Noyes Slough Fairbanks 7 miles

Sediment

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Sediment, Petroleum 

Products Urban Runoff

7 IN 30501-003 Red Devil Creek Red Devil 0.5 mile

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

Antimony, Arsenic, 

Mercury Mining

8 IN 40510-101 Slate Creek

Denali 

National Park 2.5 miles Turbidity Turbidity Mining

9 SC 20505-401 Big Lake Wasilla 1,250 acres Petroleum Hydrocarbons

Total Aromatic 

Hydrocarbons (TAH)

Motorized

Watercraft

10 SC 30101-500 Cold Bay

King Cove, 

Alaska 

Peninsula 0.01 acre

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease Petroleum Products

Military, Fuel 

Storage

11 SC 20505-001 Cottonwood Creek Wasilla 7 miles Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Fecal Coliform 

Bacteria

Urban Runoff, 

Urban 

Development
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

E. Alaska’s List of Category 5/Section 303(d) Impaired Waters

88

# Region

Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

12 SC 30102-606 Dutch Harbor

Unalaska 

Island 0.5 acre

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oil & Grease Petroleum Products

Industrial, Urban 

Runoff

13 SC 30203-001 Egegik River Egegik 0.25 mile

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oil & Grease Petroleum Products

Spills, Fuel Tanks, 

Under-ground 

Fuel Tanks

14 SC 20201-401 Eyak Lake Cordova

50 feet of 

shore-line

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease

Petroleum Products, 

Sheen

Above Ground 

Storage Tanks, 

Spills

15 SC 20401-412 Hood/Spenard Lake Anchorage 307 acres Dissolved Gas Low Dissolved Oxygen

Urban Runoff, 

Industrial

16 SC 30102-602 Iliuliuk Harbor

Unalaska 

Island

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease Petroleum Products Urban Runoff

17 SC 20402-001 Matanuska River Palmer 1⁄2 mile Residues Debris Landfill

18 SC 30101-502 Popof Strait

East 

Aleutians 

Borough 5 miles Residues Seafood Waste Residue Seafood Processor

19 SC 30102-409

Red Lake Anton Road 

Ponds Kodiak 2.0 acres

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

Metals – Iron, 

Manganese Urban Runoff

20 SC 20401-020

Ship Creek

Glenn Hwy. Bridge. Down 

to Mouth Anchorage

11 miles, 

Glenn Hwy. 

Bridge. Down 

to Mouth

Petroleum Hydrocarbons, 

Oils & Grease Petroleum Products Urban Runoff

21 SE 10203-002 Katlian River

N. of Sitka, 

Baranof 

Island 4.5 miles Sediment Turbidity Sediment, Turbidity Timber Harvest

22 SE 10103-504 Salt Chuck Bay

Prince of 

Wales Island

0.03 square 

miles

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances Metals - Copper Mining

23 SE 10303-601 Skagway Harbor Skagway 1.0 acre

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Cadmium, 

Copper, Lead, 

Mercury, Zinc Industrial
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

E. Alaska’s List of Category 5/Section 303(d) Impaired Waters

89

# Region

Alaska ID 

Number Waterbody Location

Area of 

Concern Water Quality Standard Pollutant Parameters Pollutant Sources

24 SE 10103-010

Unnamed Creek, 

Sweetwater Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, ADF&G 

Stream 3027

(Stream 3)

Prince of 

Wales Island 0.4 mile

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Aluminum, 

Cadmium, Copper, Iron Road Construction

25 SE 10103-012

Unnamed Creek, 

Sweetwater Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, ADF&G 

Stream 3021

(Stream 6)

Prince of 

Wales Island 1.14 mile

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances, Dissolved 

Inorganic Substances

Metals –

Aluminum, Cadmium, 

Copper, Iron, 

Manganese, Sulfate

Road Construction

26 SE 10103-013

Unnamed Creek, 

Sweetwater Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, ADF&G 

Stream 3019 tributary

(Stream 7)

Prince of 

Wales Island 0.3 mile

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Aluminum, 

Cadmium, Copper, 

Iron, Manganese

Road Construction

27 SE 10103-014

Unnamed Creek, 

Sweetwater Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, ADF&G 

Stream 3019

(Stream 8)

Prince of 

Wales Island 0.3 mile

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances

Metals - Cadmium, 

Copper, Iron, 

Manganese, Nickel, 

Zinc

Road Construction

28 SE 10103-015

Unnamed Creek, 

Sweetwater Lake, USFS 

3030 Road, ADF&G 

Stream 3017 tributary

(Stream 9)

Prince of 

Wales Island 0.8 mile

Toxic & Other Deleterious 

Organic and Inorganic 

Substances, Dissolved 

Inorganic Substances

MetalsAluminum, Cadmium, 

Copper, Iron, 

Manganese, Nickel, 

Zinc, Sulfate

Road Construction
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

F. Alaska Water Quality Management Programs

90

APPENDIX F Alaska Water Quality 

Management Programs 

Alaska Water Quality Standards

The protection of surface and groundwater occurs primarily through the development, adoption, and 

implementation of the water quality standards (WQS). The standards specify the degree of degradation 

that may not be exceeded in a state waterbody as a result of human actions. Alaska WQS were most 

recently revised on September 19, 2009. 

The Alaska WQS (published in Title 18, Chapter 70, of the Alaska Administrative Code [AAC]) 

designate specific uses for which water quality must be protected. Seven uses for fresh waters and seven 

uses for marine waters are designated. Table F-1 identifies these uses.

Table F-1 Designated Uses of Fresh Water and Marine Waterbodies in 

Alaska

Designated Use Fresh Water Marine

Drinking Water √

Agriculture √

Aquaculture √ √

Industrial √ √

Contact Recreation √ √

Non-contact Recreation √ √

Growth and Propagation of Fish, Shellfish, Other 

Aquatic Life, Wildlife

√ √

Seafood Processing √

Harvesting Raw Mollusks or Other Aquatic Life √

By default, waterbodies in Alaska are protected for all designated uses. The few waterbodies for which 

some uses have been removed are listed in the WQS.

Although Alaska does not have any wetland-specific WQS and neither numeric nor narrative qualitative 

criteria are specific to wetlands, the Alaska WQS consider wetlands as ―waters of the state‖;

consequently, Alaska’s WQS apply to wetlands. 

State standards specify the pollutant limits, or criteria, necessary to protect the designated uses for a 

variety of parameters or pollutants for each of the 14 fresh water and marine uses. Attainment of 

standards is required for the following 12 pollutants:

Color

FC bacteria 

Dissolved oxygen 

Dissolved inorganic substances
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

F. Alaska Water Quality Management Programs

91

Petroleum hydrocarbons, oils and grease

pH

Radioactivity 

Residues (floating solids, foam, debris, deposits) 

Sediment

Temperature 

Toxic substances 

Turbidity 

In the Section 305(b) assessment process for Section 305(b) of the federal CWA, waterbodies are 

compared to the standards for these parameters to determine whether persistent exceedances of water 

quality violations occur. 

The WQS adopt the state primary drinking water maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) in the Water 

Quality Criteria Manual for Toxic and Other Deleterious Organic and Inorganic Substances (18 AAC 

70.020(b)(11)). Because the Alaska Drinking Water Program was given primacy by the EPA, the state 

MCLs have been in full compliance with the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations contaminant 

limits. 

Alaska’s WQS also contain provisions for antidegradation, mixing zones, natural conditions, short-term 

variances, ZODs, and carcinogenic risk levels for chemical contaminants. The antidegradation 

regulation is identical to federal law and requires protection of high quality waters such as waters of a 

national or state park, wildlife refuge, or a water of exceptional recreational or ecological significance.

In a ZOD, a water quality standard may be exceeded under certain permit conditions.

Every 3 years, DEC conducts a comprehensive review of the WQS in 18 AAC 70. The triennial review 

is a CWA requirement that helps set pollution limits for Alaska’s waters by integrating the most current 

science and technology. Further information on the triennial review can be found at 

http://www.state.ak.us/dec/water/wqsar/trireview/trireview.htm.
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F. Alaska Water Quality Management Programs

92

Alaska’s Clean Water Actions

Alaska’s Approach to Water Resources Management

DEC participates in the implementation of the ACWA policy, which was initiated in 1999. Through the 

ACWA process, DEC, DNR, and ADF&G work together to focus state and federal resources to address 

issues of water quality, water quantity, and aquatic habitat for the waters with the greatest need. 

Information about ACWA is available at http://www.state.ak.us/dec/water/acwa/acwa_index.htm.

The cooperating agencies have developed a waterbody nomination and ranking process. The process 

uses established criteria to identify priorities for assessment, stewardship, and corrective action needs for 

polluted waters and waters at risk of pollution. These criteria include (1) the statutory criteria, (2) 

severity of pollution, and (3) expected uses of the waters, according to CWA Section 303(d)(1)(A).

An ACWA database uses four tracks to account for the nominated waterbodies: Data Collection and 

Monitoring, Adequately Protected Waterbodies, Waterbody Recovery, and Protect and Maintain 

Waterbodies at Risk. 

The ACWA criteria were developed to assign a numeric value that identifies relative priority to each 

successfully nominated waterbody, resulting in the ACWA Priority Ranking. Waterbodies for which 

data are not sufficient to suggest a current or anticipated problem are placed in the Data Collection and

Monitoring track. The waterbodies for which sufficient and credible data are available and for which 

those data suggest existence of a current water quality, water quantity, or aquatic habitat problem or the 

likelihood of future problems are subject to additional analyses. Those further analyses evaluate agency 

stewardship effectiveness and determine the persistence of standard exceedances or of regulation 

violations. Many of these waterbodies are entered in the Protect and Maintain Waterbodies at Risk or 

Waterbody Recovery database tracks. 

Ranking the waterbodies enables agencies to focus resources on the most important priorities.

Information on individual waterbody rankings are found on the web site cited above.

Description of Ranking Criteria

The ACWA ranking criteria include an identical set of six common factors: allocation (refers to the 

extent to which the water has been obligated for various uses), condition, protection, future use, present 

use, and value applied broadly across each of three components:

Water quantity;

Water quality; and

Aquatic habitat.

Each factor is assigned a high (5), medium (3) and lower (1) rating for each component.

Application of the Ranking Criteria

Professional agency staff review readily available information and data related to a given waterbody and 

assign a factor rating using their best professional judgment for each factor. The agency most 
Alaska’s Final 2010 Integrated Report

F. Alaska Water Quality Management Programs

93

knowledgeable and familiar with the data is responsible for an individual component. For instance, DNR 

hydrologists are assigned the responsibility for providing factor-ratings for water quantity, ADF&G

biologists are assigned the responsibility for providing aquatic habitat factor ratings, and DEC is 

assigned the responsibility for making water quality ratings. Waterbodies are ranked in descending order 

of their assigned ranking score. Numeric thresholds are established, and each waterbody is assigned a 

high, medium, or lower priority. More detailed information on the ranking process is available online at

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/acwa/acwa_ranking.htm

Funding Priorities

Funding to support high-priority protection and restoration efforts identified by the ACWA process may 

come from state agencies such as DEC, DNR, or ADF&G. Each funding source has a unique set of 

obligations and conditions for use.

A single, integrated solicitation process that captures the requirements associated with each potential 

funding source was developed in 2003. The consolidated solicitation process reduces the burden on 

applicants by providing a ―one-stop shopping‖ approach to their funding searches. It facilitates the 

project evaluation and award process of the agencies by providing, in one process, the ability to 

optimally match projects with the best funding source and provide all information required to make the 

funding awards. Project evaluations and matches to funding sources are accomplished by an interagency 

team representing all resource management and funding source agencies.

ACWA Priority Actions

ACWA priority water actions (the needed actions on the ACWA-priority waters) are identified for 

approximately 20 to 30 Alaska’s waters on an annual basis. Grant funds are made available for these 

waters. Seventeen projects were funded for actions from July 2009 to June 2010. Specific information 

on actions request and grants funded is available at http://dec.alaska.gov/water/acwa/acwa_index.htm.

Alaska Water Monitoring and Assessment Strategy

DEC developed a long-term Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Strategy (Strategy) to guide its 

stewardship of Alaska’s marine and fresh waters. The complete document presenting the Strategy, 

which was completed in June 2005, is available for review at 

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/wqsar/monitoring/DEC_monitoring_strategy_final_2005.pdf.

The Strategy is intended to meet the federal expectations for state water quality stewardship activities 

enumerated in the CWA in a manner influenced by the unique needs and challenges of Alaska. The 

Strategy integrates policy and program elements embodied in the ACWA policy and in the EPA 

Consolidated Assessment and Listing Methodology and Elements of a State Water Monitoring Program

documents. The major policies of the ACWA and EPA define specific objectives for the Strategy from 

state and federal perspectives. 

The purposes of the Strategy document are to (1) serve as a framework for Alaska resource agency 

decisions required for assessing and monitoring Alaska’s water resources; (2) support protection and 
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F. Alaska Water Quality Management Programs

94

restoration decisions; and (3) serve as a roadmap for improving state, federal, local, tribal, and public 

capabilities and performance over time for monitoring the status and trends of Alaska’s water resources. 

The Strategy focuses on what can be done with available financial resources, considering the abundance 

of Alaska’s water resources. Because of this abundance, Alaska must establish priorities for applying

limited state resources for monitoring and assessing state water resources. The Strategy touches on 

waterbody level monitoring through ACWA and ambient analysis through the Alaska Environmental 

Monitoring and Assessment Program.

The Strategy is organized around ten elements that must be addressed to ensure that monitoring and 

assessment activities are conducted on a rational basis and in a manner that ensures information is of 

good quality and is accessible for resource management decisions. Those elements are as follows:

Monitoring Program Strategy

Monitoring Objectives

Monitoring Design

Core and Supplemental Water Quality Indicators

Quality Assurance

Data Management

Data Analysis/Assessment

Reporting

Programmatic Evaluation

General Support and Infrastructure Analysis

The Strategy enables DEC to revise monitoring programs based on emerging needs. For example, the 

monitoring programs can be adapted to evaluate the impact of global changes on Alaska waters. DEC 

recognizes that sources external to Alaska may affect water quality. Information or direction from the 

Alaska Climate Change Task Force (http://www.climatechange.alaska.gov/) can be incorporated into 

future waterbody assessments and listing methodologies. The Task Force has direct responsibility for a 

host of climate change impacts, including the assessment of warming estuaries and fresh water habitat 

that support fisheries. The Task Force also intends to seek funding for an ocean acidification research 

and monitoring plan.

In 2006, EPA Region 10 completed a review of and accepted the DEC Strategy.

Alaska’s Aquatic Resource Surveys – Probabilistic Assessments

Probability-based assessments are part of the DEC Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Strategy. 

Seven regional probabilistic assessments of fresh water and marine aquatic resources (Figure F-1) have 

been conducted since 2002. The discussion below addresses the 2002 Southcentral coastal, Tanana 

River Basin, and Interior Alaska wadeable stream assessments, for which final reports have been 

completed. The full reports are available at

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/wqsar/monitoring/emap_Map.htm and in the EPA National Coastal 

Condition Report III (2008). Field surveys have been completed on the Yukon River (2009), Cook Inlet 

Lakes (2008), Coastal Aleutian Islands (2006 and 2007), and Coastal Southeast Alaska (2004). Results 

of these surveys are not yet available for inclusion in the 2010 report.
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Figure F-1 Location Map

Because of the low population density and limited industrial and agricultural activities that characterize 

the state, Alaska’s aquatic resources are often assumed to be in pristine or near-pristine condition. 

However, long-range atmospheric and oceanic transport from the more populated and industrialized 

centers are delivering contaminants to Alaska. The assessments reported on in this appendix utilized 

―core national indicators‖ as part of the EPA National Aquatic Resource Survey program. Currently, the 

core indicators and sampling design used in Alaska are not designed to assess condition of aquatic 

resources related to accumulation of contaminants at the trophic level of the food web nor climate 

change impacts, such as ocean acidification. 

Southcentral Alaska Coastal Survey

DEC collected data at a total of 55 sites that covered the geographic range from Unimak Island in the 

southwest study area to the Copper River Delta area in the northeast study area. The target study area 

included coastal bays and estuaries in Southcentral Alaska, including the Alaska Peninsula, Kodiak

Island archipelago, Cook Inlet, the Kenai Peninsula, and Prince William Sound.

The Southcentral Alaska coastal assessment utilizing the core indicators of the EPA National Coastal 

Assessment (NCA) sampled 55 locations. Based on three of the NCA indices (water quality, sediment 

quality, and fish tissue contaminants), the overall condition was rated good. National indices indicating 

poor conditions for water clarity at some sites did not account for conditions natural to this region, i.e. 

glacial flour. High levels of chromium and nickel were found at one site near Chrome Bay, for which a 

subsequent assessment was conducted in 2009 (results pending) to determine if these results represent 

the natural condition. Because of the lack of current and historical biological data, it was not possible to 

assess appropriate benthic or coastal habitat indices for this region. The percentage of coastal area in 
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good, fair, poor, and missing categories for each NCA index and component indicator is shown in the 

report, which is available at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/wqsar/Docs/EMAPSC2%20Report.pdf.

Tanana River

The Tanana River originates in the Yukon Territory, Canada, flows west, and discharges into the Yukon 

River near Tanana, Alaska (Figure 1 above). The basin covers more than 44,700 square miles and lies 

south of the Yukon River where discontinuous permafrost has been thawing in recent decades 

(Jorgenson and others, 2001).

DEC collected water-quality data from 84 sites along the navigable rivers in the Tanana Basin from

October 2003 through September 2006 as part of a cooperative study between the USGS and DEC 

Alaska Monitoring and Assessment Program (AKMAP). A broad range of chemical analyses were

conducted for 93 sets of samples collected at 59 tributaries to the Tanana River and at 25 locations along 

the mainstem. In situ pH, specific conductance, water temperature and DO concentrations were 

measured, and samples were analyzed for major ions, dissolved organic carbon, and oxygen isotopes.

The report for the Tanana River Basin Survey can be found at 

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/wqsar/Docs/USGS_ofr20071390.pdf. This report contains the field 

water-quality constituents and water-quality data analyzed by USGS from October 2003 to September 

2006.

Alaska Interior Wadeable Stream Assessment

The Alaska Interior Wadeable Streams Assessment summarizes field data collected during 2004 and 

2005 as part of a study designed to assess the ecological condition of wadeable, perennial streams in the 

Tanana River basin of Interior Alaska. This project was conducted in conjunction with the EPA 

Wadeable Streams Assessment (WSA). Funded by EPA, the Alaska WSA study was a cooperative effort 

among EPA, DEC, the Environment and Natural Resources Institute (ENRI) of the University of Alaska 

Anchorage, the School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and 

USGS. Although information from this assessment was not included in the national EPA report, Alaska 

produced a report summarizing the findings. Fresh water indices (water quality, sediment, and biological 

conditions) are included. Forty-two Tanana River Basin streams were analyzed, representing 7,754 

miles of stream. 

The report is available at 

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/wqsar/monitoring/Tanana_Wadeable_Str_Rep_Final.pdf. Summaries 

are presented of the most important physical, chemical, habitat, and biological metrics. Preliminary 

results of a modeling approach for helping detect and diagnose changes in ecological condition at stream

sites based on deviations from predicted macroinvertebrate functional feeding group composition are

discussed.

Nonpoint Source Pollution Program

Because much of Alaska is undeveloped and relatively pristine, the primary emphasis of the nonpoint 

source pollution strategy is prevention. In populated areas, however, many waterbodies, including 
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important salmon streams, have been degraded and need restoration. Waterbody restoration plans are 

developed and implemented for waterbody locations where water quality is impaired. Restoration 

strategies for polluted waterbodies consider the entire watershed and include measures to control the 

sources of pollution to prevent future degradation. Restoration activities are designed to achieve a water 

quality condition appropriate to the specific site.

Nine key elements have been identified by EPA as necessary for an effective nonpoint source program

in Alaska:

Explicit short- and long-term goals, objectives, and strategies to protect surface and 

groundwater

Strong working partnerships and links to appropriate state, tribal, regional, and local entities 

(including conservation districts), private-sector groups, citizens’ groups, and federal 

agencies

A balanced approach that emphasizes both statewide nonpoint source programs and on-theground management of watersheds where waters are impaired and threatened

Abatement of known water quality impairments resulting from nonpoint source pollution and 

prevention of significant threats to water quality from present and future activities

Identification of waters and watersheds impaired by nonpoint source pollution and important 

unimpaired waters that are threatened or otherwise at risk. Alaska’s Nonpoint Source Water 

Pollution Program includes a process of progressively addressing these waters by conducting 

more detailed watershed assessments, developing watershed/waterbody implementation 

plans, and implementing those plans

Review, upgrades, and implementation of all program components and establishment of 

flexible, targeted, and iterative approaches to achieve and maintain beneficial uses of water, 

including (1) a mix of programs based on water quality, technology, or both; (2) a mix of 

regulatory, nonregulatory, financial, and technical assistance as needed to achieve and 

maintain beneficial uses of water; and (3) incorporation of or cross references to existing 

baseline requirements established by other relevant federal or state laws

Identification of federal lands management and activities that are not managed consistently

with the objectives of Alaska’s nonpoint source program 

Efficient and effective program management, including necessary financial management

Periodic review and evaluation using environmental and functional measures of success in 

which sources of nonpoint source pollution are assessed and the management program is 

revised at least every 5 years

These nine key elements have been incorporated and integrated with ACWA policy in the Alaska 

Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Control Strategy. This strategy is available at 

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/wnpspc/pdfs/2007_NPSStrategy.pdf. The following general sources of 

nonpoint source pollution are addressed:

Urban and community development

Forest practices
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Harbors and marinas

Hydromodification

Mining

Agriculture

Road, highways, and bridges

Maintenance of good water quality can only be achieved when all sources of pollution are considered, 

resources are used for the highest priorities, and people work together to prevent pollution and achieve 

clean water goals. Integration of the nine key program elements listed above with the ACWA priorities 

ensures that stewardship and prevention, monitoring and, when necessary, restoration actions are 

implemented.

Coastal Nonpoint Source Pollution 

Strategies for nonpoint water pollution control include implementation of the Alaska Coastal Clean 

Water Plan, published as a Public Review Draft in August 1995, and the requirements of the Coastal 

Zone Act Reauthorization Amendments (CZARA) (Section 6217). 

Most management measures of CZARA Section 6217 are implemented through existing state programs 

and authorities, including the following:

State certification of federal permits and activities that WQS will be met

Fish habitat protection

Water rights appropriations

Alaska Coastal and Harbor Design Procedures Manual

Harbor management agreements

Forest Resources and Practices Act 

Regulations and erosion and sediment control plans for dam construction

The management measures are intended to ensure appropriate protection occurs during the efficient use 

of resources.

BEACH Grant Program

The goal of the Alaska BEACH Grant Program is to provide funding that helps Alaskan communities 

monitor the state’s marine beaches for fecal pollution.

DEC surveyed Alaska coastal communities and found that some beaches more likely to have a higher 

level of bacterial contamination than others. To learn more about the extent of possible sources of the 

presence of FC bacteria or enterococci bacteria, DEC has entered into an agreement or memorandum of 

understanding (MOU) with several coastal communities that will be able to apply for BEACH Grant 

funding. These cooperating communities will work with DEC for water quality monitoring, community 

notification, and training. 
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The BEACH Act of 2000

The Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act was signed into law in 

October 2000 in response to concerns that people were becoming ill after visiting local shores/beaches, 

especially when they came into direct contact with the water during recreational activities. EPA awards 

grants to state and tribal authorities to assist with the implementation of beach water monitoring and 

advisory notification programs. More information on the EPA beach program can be found at 

http://www.epa.gov/beaches/.

Alaska Beach Monitoring Program

With the assistance of interested organizations and the general public, DEC has developed a beach 

monitoring program to evaluate the possible risk to recreational beach users in Alaska. By notifying the 

public in the event that a sample exceeds the allowable levels, this program will help prevent illnesses 

that could result from exposure to contaminated beach water. 

Identification of Alaska Beaches

The DEC BEACH Grant Program defines a beach as ―any shoreline where recreational activities may 

bring a person into complete or partial body contact with marine water.‖ According to this definition, a 

beach may include sections of a shoreline that do not appear to look like a sandy beach. 

A Recreational Beach Survey was performed in 2003 to gather information from coastal communities 

about the recreational use of beaches in their areas. The 60 responses received identified 203 

recreational-use beaches as areas that were used for recreational purposes. These beaches were located 

in 53 coastal Alaska communities. 

Current Status of the Alaska BEACH Program

DEC funds monitoring and development of phases of the BEACH program by local communities and 

tribal governments through the ACWA/BEACH grant process. Communities (including Dillingham, 

Haines, Juneau, Naknek, and Homer) have monitored local recreational beaches for indicator bacteria

using funding from the Alaska BEACH Grant Program since summer 2007. The program supports

monitoring of marine water quality adjacent to high-use beaches. Grantees sample beach water for 

organisms (FCs and enterococci bacteria) that indicate the presence of fecal contamination.

Funding for beach monitoring will be made available through the ACWA/BEACH grant process to 

communities with high-priority beaches. More information about the Alaska BEACH grant program is 

available at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/wqsar/wqs/beachprogram.htm.

Point Source Pollution Program

Overall Approach

DEC’s point source pollution program covers more than 1,000 permitted facilities and activities 

throughout the State of Alaska. DEC’s overall approach to water quality management is to focus staff 

resources on facilities and activities that pose higher risks to public health or the environment. Efforts 

are under way in five broad categories.
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Delegation of the Wastewater Permitting Program

In October 2008, EPA formally approved the state’s application to administer the NPDES wastewater 

permitting and compliance and enforcement program for point source discharges of pollution to waters 

of the United States. The state’s program is called the Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 

(APDES) Program. 

Authority to administer the federal program will transfer to DEC during 3 years beginning at program 

approval and ending October 2011. Until authority over a facility transfers to DEC, EPA will remain the 

permitting and compliance and enforcement authority for that facility. The phasing schedule and list of 

facilities in each phase is available for review at the following DEC web page:

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/npdes/APDESAuthorityTransferSchedule.htm.

DEC will continue to issue state individual and GPs for discharges that do not require an NPDES permit. 

DEC also will continue to review permits for facilities still under EPA authority for water quality 

impacts. 

Focus on High-Priority Permits

Staff focus on improving and updating permits for facilities and activities that pose a higher risk to 

human health or the environment by working on APDES and federal NPDES individual permits for all 

large-volume, major dischargers, and by using new or reissued GPs that standardize the review of 

similar or lower-risk projects. DEC also regulates domestic wastewater treatment facilities that are not 

permitted by the EPA but need a discharge permit and are important to the human health in smaller 

Alaskan communities. Finally, DEC prioritizes facilities to be inspected through the use of a risk-based 

scoring and ranking model as well as by applying national EPA priorities. 

Enhancement of Compliance

A facility’s compliance with effluent limits and operational conditions designed to protect water quality 

is enhanced by assistance from DEC staff, who have extensive experience with a wide variety of local 

conditions and waste treatment technologies. Routine review of monitoring records submitted to DEC 

and follow-up as needed also yield incremental improvements in the ambient water quality. 

Provision of Technical Information

Trained and technically competent staff are accessible through various telecommunication tools that 

bridge the vast distances that characterize Alaska. The staff support to permittees and their consultants 

provides technical assistance and resources for information about successful technologies and practices 

for wastewater treatment and discharge. 

Streamlining of the Permitting Process

Regulatory compliance is facilitated by streamlined application, fee payment, and electronic reporting; 

permit conditions that focus on cost-effective practices gleaned from statewide experience; and 

consistent application of requirements across industry sectors on pollutants of concern. Also, a modern 
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data system provides an analytical tool to support improvements in other aspects of DEC’s water quality 

program, e.g., improvements to Alaska WQS.

Protection of Subsurface Wastewater

DEC wastewater engineers review plans for onsite wastewater systems (septic systems), wastewater 

lagoons, and underground injection control (UIC) wells (specifically, EPA Class V injection wells).

Underground disposal systems and injection wells can pose a threat to groundwater quality and affect 

drinking water sources. Common examples in Alaska are sumps, drains, drywells, and drainfields that 

are used to dispose of septic tank effluent and wells for commercial wastewater, and injection. Class V 

wells are also used for the disposal of stormwater and snow melt. Contaminants associated with 

injection wells can include nutrients, bacteria, viruses, solvents, antifreeze, used oil, and dissolved heavy 

metals. These pollutants can degrade groundwater aquifers that serve as wells for public or private 

drinking water systems. DEC reviews ensure that domestic wastewater (septage and sewage) is properly 

treated, stored, handled, and disposed of in a safe and sanitary manner. Poorly designed systems can also 

cause groundwater to migrate to and pollute surface waters, especially in areas with high water tables or 

near tidally influenced waterbodies. 

DEC engineers also review and approve plans for the design and construction of domestic and 

commercial wastewater treatment, storage, and disposal facilities. Staff also review monitoring reports 

for treated wastewater discharges to the surface of the land or into the ground that may affect the 

groundwater. Information from the domestic wastewater program is used to create maps that show the 

location of septic systems, identified UIC wells, wastewater treatment systems, and sewage lagoons 

when completing public water system source water assessments for the drinking water protection 

program (see Drinking Water section below).

Regulation of Stormwater

Stormwater discharges are generated by runoff from land and impervious areas, such as paved streets, 

parking lots, and building rooftops during rainfall and snow. This runoff often contains pollutants in 

quantities that could adversely affect water quality.

Authority to administer the Stormwater Program transferred to DEC on October 31, 2009. The point 

source stormwater program focuses on two types of stormwater: (1) subject to APDES permitting 

requirements and stormwater(2) handled by treatment and discharge systems.

Stormwater discharges that require an APDES permit include discharges from constructions sites 

disturbing 1 or more acre of land, certain industrial facilities, and municipal separate stormwater sewer 

systems (MS4) in the Anchorage and Fairbanks areas. APDES stormwater permits require proper site 

control and rainfall and snowmelt. Runoff is treated, and contact with pollutants is prevented with good 

site design and construction.

Under 18 AAC 72.600, DEC reviews and approves engineering plans for stormwater treatment and 

discharge systems. The goal of this review is to ensure that permanent stormwater systems are designed 

and constructed to meet pollutant removal criteria and BMPs. 
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Environmental Compliance Program for Commercial Passenger Vessels

In 2001, Alaska passed an innovative pollution prevention law that applies to passenger vessels, 

including some Alaska Marine Highway System vessels. The law is applicable for both small passenger 

vessels, serving 5 to 249 people, and large passenger vessels, serving 250 or more people. The 

Commercial Passenger Vessel Environmental Compliance Program (Cruise Ship Program) implements 

the law and ensures that cruise ships and ferries comply with wastewater effluent and visible emission 

standards. Effluent limits are set for both graywater (e.g., water from showers and dishwaters) and 

blackwater (e.g., toilet water). 

There have been two changes to the original law. In 2004, the Legislature revised the law that applied to 

small passenger vessels. It allowed small passenger vessels to implement BMPs to manage their 

wastewater discharge; for example, discharging only while underway. In August 2006, the voters 

approved a citizen-sponsored cruise ship ballot initiative. The new law requires that cruise ships obtain 

wastewater permits in order to discharge. It also requires that observers—Ocean Rangers—be placed on

board cruise vessels while in Alaska waters. The Cruise Ship Program is in the process of issuing a 

wastewater discharge GP. DEC is also in the process of hiring a contractor to place Ocean Rangers on 

board ships during the 2010 cruise season. 

The Cruise Ship Program also conducts scientific research to assess the impact of cruise ship wastewater 

on the environment in Alaska and may create additional standards if science and technology warrant. 

The state law also addresses the offloading or disposal of nonhazardous solid wastes (besides sewage) 

and hazardous wastes in Alaska. Vessel owner/operators are required to annually submit a description of 

the vessel procedures for handling nonhazardous and hazardous waste and to report any deviations from 

the vessel plan to DEC. The Cruise Ship Program is supported by industry fees.

Drinking Water Program

The Drinking Water Program consists of four interrelated sections charged with oversight of public 

water systems (PWSs). The sections and additional areas of responsibility are identified below:

Engineering;

Compliance and Monitoring—PWS compliance and enforcement activities;

Statewide Technical Services—Drinking water protection, Alaska PWS Database, PWS 

security and emergency response planning, and statewide PWS compliance and enforcement 

coordination; and

Program Management and Administration.

Public Water System and Drinking Water Compliance 

Staff in the Compliance and Monitoring, Engineering, and Statewide Technical Services sections

primarily compose the Drinking Water Program’s compliance and enforcement group for the Drinking 

Water Program. These compliance and enforcement activities are referred to as the Public Water System 

Supervision (PWSS) Program. The Alaska PWSS Program focuses on PWSs that are federally 

regulated, which are systems that provide drinking water to 25 or more individuals and do not include 
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single-family homes or duplexes with their own private wells. Alaska has approximately 1,570 federally 

regulated PWSs, according to an October 1, 2009, inventory. This inventory figure is dynamic, changing 

frequently in the course of a year. Some PWSs are seasonal, shutting down for 6 to 9 months of the year. 

In addition, many systems are slowly going out of business, disbanding, or being consolidated into 

larger systems, and many small community-type systems are starting up in the areas of rapid growth, 

such as the Matanuska-Susitna Valley.

Both the State of Alaska and the federal government classify PWSs based on population served and 

duration of operation, regardless of whether the drinking water source is groundwater or surface water. 

The federal (EPA) classifications for PWSs are Community Water Systems (CWS), Non-transient Noncommunity Water System (NTNCWS), and Transient Non-community Water Systems (TNCWS). The 

State of Alaska adopted the federal nomenclature for PWS classification effective April 2009. Alaska’s 

October 2009 PWS inventory showed 436 CWS, 245 NTNCWS, and 892 TNCWS.

Alaska is a primacy state for drinking water and has direct oversight of PWSs within the state. The state 

is required to complete the timely development or adoption of federal drinking water rules and obtain 

and maintain primacy for all drinking water rules and required drinking water initiatives. As a primacy 

state, Alaska is required to implement the state PWSS Program to meet the intent and requirements of 

the SDWA and its 1986 and 1996 amendments. 

The Alaska PWSS Program does not create, measure, or develop data. Rather, it provides for collection 

of information routinely sent directly to the Drinking Water Program staff. The information collected 

and the responsible parties are identified below:

PWS compliance monitoring data, prepared by DEC-certified laboratories

Operator reports, provided by PWS owners or operators

Sanitary survey inspector reports, prepared by DEC Drinking Water Program staff and DECcertified third party sanitary survey inspectors

Drinking Water Program engineering staff also complete component assessments of onsite water system 

status and comprehensive performance evaluations of Alaska PWSs to confirm that systems were built 

as approved and to provide information to PWS owners to better optimize system performance. Staff 

review and either approve or disapprove the engineered plans for PWS treatment, storage, and 

distribution systems. The program requires that PWSs produce treated water that meets the standards set 

by federal rules and state regulations for the regulated drinking water contaminants. The program 

receives, stores, and uses monitoring data on PWS compliance for the regulated drinking water 

contaminants as well as any specific rule requirements to confirm that the health of the customers being 

served by a PWS is protected. The program requires that PWSs be in compliance with SDWA 

requirements, federal rules, and state regulations at all times. If a PWS is in noncompliance, Drinking 

Water Program staff provide technical and compliance assistance. The staff also take appropriate 

enforcement actions or may refer the PWS to EPA for enforcement.

All PWS location data for Alaska’s federally regulated PWSs was provided to the EPA approximately 

5years ago (2004). Alaska PWS location data for new systems and existing treatment systems, wellhead 

(groundwater source), and intake (surface water source) are routinely checked during the sanitary survey 

process. Any changes in location data are corrected in the state-maintained PWS Safe Drinking Water 
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Information System (SDWIS) database, which is named SDWIS/State. All routine data for federally 

regulated PWSs are reported to EPA during monthly or quarterly data transfers. This information 

includes the State of Alaska PWS inventory, source types, populations served, latitude and longitude of 

new treatment systems and source intakes or updated information from existing systems, compliance 

monitoring data, enforcement actions, and operator reports. 

Alaska is also required to submit to EPA an annual public water system compliance report for its PWSS 

Program. First submitted in 1996, the annual compliance report must be submitted to EPA by July 1 of 

each year for the previous calendar year, unless designated otherwise by EPA.

Drinking Water Protection

The Drinking Water Protection (DWP) component of the statewide Drinking Water Program ultimately 

focuses on the assessment of water supplies used by Alaska PWSs for drinking water purposes and the 

protection of groundwater supplies used by public drinking water systems. Through an extensive public 

involvement process, Alaska developed its Drinking Water Protection Program, a combined source 

water assessments and Wellhead Protection Program for PWS, which was approved by EPA on April 4, 

2000. This component of the statewide DWP combines activities and information from PWS source 

water assessments and Wellhead Protection Management Plans (WPMPs), and focuses on the protection 

of drinking water produced and distributed by PWSs that use surface water, groundwater, or combined 

sources.

The initial project to complete source water assessments of Alaska PWSs has been completed. A total of 

1,668 source water assessments were completed for 1,427 PWSs. Currently, source water assessments 

for new PWSs are being completed after the system is built and inventory information is documented in 

SDWIS/State. Since July 1, 2004 (the EPA deadline for completion of PWS source water assessments 

for existing systems by primacy states), and as of October 2009, 257 new PWS source water 

assessments have been completed. The following activities associated with the source water assessment 

process also have been completed: 361 PWS delineations, 281 contaminant source inventories, and 280 

vulnerability analyses. The source water assessment process includes identifying source water (drinking 

water) protection areas using a series of uniform flow equations and watershed delineations; completing 

a contaminant source inventory of all potential and existing sources of regulated drinking water 

contaminants within the protection areas; and completing a vulnerability assessment based on the level 

of risk associated with identified potential and existing contaminant sources. The goal of completing 

PWS source water assessments is to identify and prioritize contaminant risks to public water supplies as 

a basis for protection efforts. These protection efforts will be largely undertaken at a local level and will

be supported by the state through possible regulations, guidance documents, fact sheets, and Wellhead 

Protection Program activities. The source water assessments will also be a crucial tool for use by the 

state in assisting operators and owners of PWSs in achieving compliance with the EPA Groundwater

Rule, promulgated November 8, 2006. 

During fiscal year 2004, an interactive CD-ROM was developed and produced for PWS owners, 

managers, operators, and communities to use to develop their WPMPs. The CD directs the users through 

the information entry process with easy-to-use methodology and easy-to-understand instructions. The 

end product is a written wellhead protection plan specifically designed for a particular public drinking 

water system or local community. The completed source water assessment report and the most recent 
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sanitary survey are then added as appendices to the plan, resulting in a complete and comprehensive 

WPMP for the system. 

DWP staff have continued further development and implementation of a statewide voluntary Public 

Water System Wellhead Protection Program. To accomplish this goal, DWP staff assisted communities 

and PWS owners and operators in developing WPMPs for their systems through the use of the 

interactive CD-ROM (previously described) and completed public outreach through workshops and 

presentations on wellhead protection tools and strategies. Additionally, DWP staff assisted the Alaska 

Rural Water Association (ARWA) Source Water Protection Specialist in presenting joint workshops on 

both PWS wellhead protection and source water protection planning. Community support is essential for 

an effective local Wellhead Protection Program, which includes development and implementation of a 

WPMP.

The Wellhead Protection Advisory Committee recommended to the State of Alaska, DEC Drinking 

Water Program, that the statewide voluntary Public Water System Wellhead Protection Program be 

renamed the ―Drinking Water Protection Advisory Committee.‖ The advisory committee recommended 

and approved the creation of ―Endorsed Drinking Water Protection Plans‖ and redefined the definition 

of ―substantial implementation,‖ a term used by EPA to measure protection strategies that minimize the 

risk of contamination of a source of drinking water. A list of these recommendations can be reviewed on 

the Drinking Water Program website at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/eh/dw/DWP/WAC.htm.

As of October 2009, 32 PWSs had substantially implemented a Drinking Water Protection Plan. These 

32 PWS provide drinking water to 338,735 consumers. More than 50% of the residents and visitors of 

the State of Alaska receiving water from a PWS receive water from systems with a substantially 

protected source of drinking water.

Criteria for the Endorsed Drinking Water Protection Plans were established in conjunction with ARWA 

criteria for the development of protection plans for which ARWA assists communities with 

development. As of October 2009), ten water systems had Endorsed Drinking Water Protection Plans. It 

is hoped that new fiscal incentives from the ACWA grant program will help facilitate the development 

of Endorsed Drinking Water Protection Plans. DWP staff continues to work toward identifying the 

communities that are currently implementing protection strategies. The communities that are 

implementing protection strategies will be recognized and may qualify for future incentives. In the 

meantime, DWP staff focus their efforts on communities that do have protection strategies in place.

In fiscal year 2009, the Drinking Water Protection Group collaborated with the ACWA grant program, 

which is a multi-agency effort. The DEC Drinking Water Program, Drinking Water Protection Group, 

contributed $10,000 from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), Local Assistance and 

Other State Programs set-asides. These funds are to be used toward proposals that promote or develop 

stewardship strategies leading to increased protection of water sources used for public drinking water 

supplies. The first grant, which also incorporated CWA funding, was awarded to Friends of Mat-Su for 

fiscal year 2010. Funding this project allowed Friends of Mat-Su to develop an educational outreach 

program for homes and businesses around Lake Wasilla, where more than 20 PWS wells are located 

within 2,000 feet of the lake. Education outreach is expected to focus on key issues of septic system 

location and maintenance, proper well construction, well decommissioning (abandonment) procedures, 

and discontinued use and closure of waste disposal wells for Class V motor vehicles. In the future, the 
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grant program will be used to assist community PWSs develop or implement DEC Endorsed Drinking 

Water Protection Plans.

Vulnerability assessments of public water supplies, which are part of the source water assessment 

process, can serve as a foundation for comprehensive management and protection of Alaska’s 

groundwater resources. In addition, they can assist a PWS owner using a groundwater source achieve 

and maintain compliance with the Groundwater Rule and can support future commercial and industrial 

growth. Information gathered and generated during the initial years of the source water assessment 

program for public water supplies can be used to enhance the protection of lakes, rivers, and streams in 

populated areas by validating or improving on the TMDL values used to issue permits to discharge 

wastes. This information can also be used to establish TMDLs to manage the discharge of wastes to 

aquifers; identify critical sole-source aquifers used as a drinking water supply by a PWS; identify any 

areas of declining groundwater levels or degrading groundwater quality; and perform unified watershed 

assessments statewide.

If a PWS provides drinking water that meets all the health-based standards set by the SDWA on a 

consistent and adequate basis, good public health protection is established for the customers served by 

that PWS. All activities completed in the Drinking Water Program support the overall goal of requiring 

that PWSs provide both a safe and adequate supply of drinking water for the residents and visitors to the 

State of Alaska.

More information on source water assessments, completed assessment reports of PWS sources, and 

wellhead protection activities, is available on the DEC Drinking Water Program, Source Water 

Assessment, and Wellhead Protection web pages at 

http://www.dec.state.ak.us/eh/dw/DWP/complete.aspx.

Groundwater Protection

Groundwater Importance: Alaska’s groundwater resources may be among the most abundant in the 

nation. However, very few of Alaska’s aquifers have been studied (or even located), and limited water 

quality data are available. 

Alaska is sparsely populated by approximately 686,000 residents. Urban development is concentrated in 

a few main population centers, with the majority of people living in Southcentral Alaska. Nearly onehalf of the state’s population lives in the Municipality of Anchorage. Other major population centers 

include Fairbanks, in interior Alaska, and Juneau, the state capital, in southeast Alaska. Beyond these 

major population centers, communities tend to be small and generally not connected by roads.
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Figure F-2 Groundwater Uses

Groundwater is a source of drinking water for about 50% of the overall state population and for 90% of 

the rural residents. Eighty-three percent of Alaska’s 1,573 public drinking water systems use a 

groundwater source. The total groundwater withdrawn for these PWSs represents only 37% of the total 

fresh water used by all Alaska PWSs. This small amount of fresh water use is due to a small number of 

PWSs serving a large number of people from surface water sources. Examples of the systems serving 

many people are those in Anchorage, Cordova, Ketchikan, Kodiak, and Sitka. Ninety percent of the 

private drinking water supplies use groundwater. Of the estimated 63 million gallons of groundwater

used in Alaska each day, more than 50% (34 million gallons per day [mgd]) is used for public water 

supplies. Approximately 23% (14 mgd) is used for industrial, mining, and power production; roughly 

10% (6 mgd) is used for domestic water purposes; 14% (9 mgd) is used for commercial purposes, and 

less than 1% (<1 mgd) is used for agricultural purposes.

1

GroundwaterWater Availability: Groundwater is available in most areas of Alaska, except where 

permafrost is very deep in the northern part of the state. Southcentral and interior Alaska have the 

greatest dependence on groundwater. Water systems in Arctic, Western, and Southeast Alaska more 

frequently use streams, rivers, lakes, and rainwater catchments. The largest groundwater withdrawals 

occur in Anchorage, the Fairbanks North Star Borough, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and Kenai 

Peninsula Borough. Figure F-3 shows the distribution of PWSs that use groundwater.

Most of Alaska’s aquifers consist of unconsolidated materials derived from glaciers, rivers, and streams. 

Producing aquifers are typically unconfined (i.e., not protected by a layer of clay or silt), and the depth 

to groundwater ranges from a few feet to more than 400 feet statewide. 

 

1The statistics presented are based on estimates provided by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources.

Public Water 

Supplies, 53.70%

Agriculture, 0.30%

Private Water 

Supplies, 9.80%

Commercial, 

13.70%

Industrial, 

Commercial & 

Power Production, 

22.50%
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Water Quality: Although water quality data are sparse, most of the state’s groundwater is suitable for 

domestic, agriculture, aquaculture, commercial, and industrial uses with moderate or minimal treatment. 

Naturally occurring iron, manganese, and arsenic are the most common treatment problems in 

groundwater systems. Storage and spills of fuel, along with wastewater disposal, primarily from onsite 

(septic) systems, are common threats to groundwater quality statewide. Additionally, a range of other 

activities have potentially or actually affected groundwater quality (e.g., nonpoint source pollution in 

urban areas, natural resource extraction in remote locations, and a wide range of potential point sources 

of pollution). 

Prevention of human exposure to contaminated groundwater is a main focus of the DEC Contaminated 

Sites and Leaking Underground Storage Tanks Programs, which remedy new and historical

contamination resulting from leaking underground fuel tanks and other releases of oil and hazardous 

substances. Cleanup and remediation efforts have been ongoing since the late 1980s. Groundwater is 

known to be contaminated at 1,330 sites. Cleanup of groundwater is a lengthy process and is the biggest 

constraint to complete closure of most contaminated sites. During the cleanup, primary efforts are 

focused on preventing use of the water for drinking and to monitor the status of contamination. Alaska 

contaminated sites include seven Superfund sites where cleanups have been under way for a number of 

years.

Cost of Contamination: The cost to clean up (remediate) contaminated groundwater can be staggering;

costs typically can run into millions of dollars, depending on site conditions. Installing and operating 

groundwater remediation equipment and long-term groundwater monitoring are common expenses 

during remediation. DWP and ARWA staff are coordinating DWP activities to provide education to 

Figure F-3 Distribution of Community & Nontransient/Noncommunity Public Water Systems 

in Alaska Using Groundwater

Number of Systems

 Distribution of community & nontransient/noncommunity

 public water systems in Alaska using groundwater
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communities. The education is intended to communicate the savings realized when contamination is 

prevented.

Efforts to Protect Groundwater: Protection of Alaska’s groundwater is largely accomplished through 

the regulation of contaminated sites, storage tanks, spill response, and specific waste disposal activities 

under state and federal programs. DEC manages several programs that contribute to the protection of 

groundwater, including the following: Contaminated Sites, Storage Tank, Prevention & Emergency 

Response, Industry Preparedness & Pipeline, Solid Waste, Pesticides, Drinking Water, Wastewater, 

Water Quality, and Facilities. Additionally, ARWA staff, the EPA Underground Injection Control 

Program, and several other important EPA programs promote the protection of groundwater quality in 

Alaska.

Division of Water: Although Water Quality Programs of the Division of Water are focused primarily on 

surface water pollution, they are also protective of groundwater because surface water quality can have 

an impact on groundwater quality through infiltration and percolation. Division activities that protect 

groundwater quality include the industrial, domestic, and onsite domestic wastewater permitting 

programs; water quality protection, stewardship, and restoration projects implemented by the Division or 

funded through the ACWA grant program; and development of water body recovery plans and TMDL 

assessments.

The Facilities Section of the Division of Water funds the Village Safe Water Program, which provides 

grants and engineering assistance to small communities for water, sewer, and solid waste disposal 

projects. Through the Municipal Matching Grants and Loans (MMG&L) Program, the Facilities Section 

administers the Alaska Clean Water Fund and the Alaska Drinking Water Fund, which provide loans 

and engineering support for drinking water, wastewater (sewer), solid waste, and nonpoint source 

pollution projects, such as waterbody restoration and recovery. These loan programs are designed for 

cities, boroughs, and qualified private utilities. The Alaska Municipal Water, Sewerage, and Solid Waste 

Matching Grant Program primarily assists the larger communities and boroughs in Alaska.

Wetlands

The National Wetlands Inventory of USF&WS estimates that the State of Alaska includes 63% of the 

nation’s wetland ecosystems. Activities in these wetlands and their associated waters are regulated under 

federal and state law and local ordinances because these ecosystems have been shown to perform vital 

and valuable physical, chemical, and biological functions. Alaska’s wetlands function to support the 

state’s diverse human communities, fish and wildlife populations, water resources, and economy. 

In addition to being valuable, Alaska’s wetlands are highly variable. They include salt and fresh water 

areas influenced by tides, temperate rain forests, bogs, moist and wet tundra, extensive rivers and 

streams, large river deltas, and vast areas of black spruce forested wetland. Table F-2 provides a 

summary of the estimated wetland acreage based on the National Wetlands Inventory. 

Table F-2 Estimated Wetland Acreage

Alaska’s Wetlands by Major Category with Common Examples
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Wetland 

Categorya Common Examples

Estimated 

Acres

Palustrine All non-tidal wetlands: muskegs, bogs, 

forested wetlands, tundra, open water

172,503,400

Estuarine Bays, salt marshes, beaches 2,131,900

Marine Intertidal Ocean shoreline 48,600

Total Wetlands 174,683,900

a

Source: USF&WS, Cowardin Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitat, 1979 

Although Alaska does not have any wetland-specific WQS and neither numeric nor narrative qualitative 

criteria are specific to wetlands, the Alaska WQS (18 AAC 70) consider wetlands as ―waters of the 

state‖; consequently, Alaska’s WQS apply to wetlands.

Wetland Trends

The 174,683,900 acres of wetlands in Alaska compose approximately 43% of state surface area. By 

comparison, the entire remainder of the United States contains 103 million acres of wetlands, 

representing approximately 5% of the surface area. About half of all Colonial-era wetland acreage in the 

lower 48 states has been converted to agriculture, development, or other land uses. Although there is no 

statistically reliable data on statewide wetland losses, USF&WS estimates that Alaska has lost 

200,000 acres, or less than 1% of the state’s original wetland acreage.

In urbanized and developed areas of Alaska, such as Anchorage, more than 50% of the wetlands have 

been developed. Significant percentages of wetlands in other urbanized areas, including Juneau, 

Fairbanks, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and the North Slope, have been lost or affected. Because there 

is a strong correlation between waterbodies that are listed as impaired by DEC and areas where wetlands 

have been affected or developed, wetlands need restoration and mitigation of impacts associated with 

development. Wetlands also need protection. Specifically, wetland functions need to be maintained to 

enhance or protect water quality for drinking water, spawning, and other uses. 

Wetlands Management and Functional Assessment

As the lead state agency for wetland issues, DEC has developed a strategy for managing wetlands that 

consists of the following major activities:

Permitting and inspections 

Use of a functional assessment and classification system (the hydrogeomorphic approach) 

Assistance to local government and tribal organizations for wetland protection and mitigation 

efforts

Permitting and Inspections

DEC participates in the management and protection of wetlands by reviewing and certifying USACE 

dredge and fill permits under the authority of CWA Section 401. This review and certification ensures 

that construction and other activities do not exceed Alaska’s WQS. The Alaska District of USACE 

completes more than 1,000 permit actions per year.
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For the past 3 years, DEC has reviewed individual USACE dredge and fill permits using a risk-based 

priority system. Under this system, DEC waived its right to certify permits for 50% of the projects that 

were reviewed. Approximately 50% of projects were certified with or without stipulations that ensure

the project will meet Alaska’s WQS.

In addition, DEC reviews preconstruction notifications of USACE GP verifications that do not require a 

Section 401 certification on a project-by-project basis.

Functional Assessment and Classification

To ensure that Alaska’s wetlands are managed wisely, wetland professionals and policy makers need a 

regionally based, scientifically valid, consistent, and efficient functional assessment tool. DEC 

recognized that an assessment tool was needed to help managers and users recognize and distinguish 

between (1) naturally variable conditions and changes in the functioning of Alaska’s wetlands and 

(2) changes that result from human activities. In response to this need, in 1996 DEC initiated a broadbased, statewide effort to develop a functional assessment approach for Alaskan wetlands. 

The hydrogeomorphic approach was selected by DEC and other cooperating agencies and organizations 

because it offers a rapid and reference-based method of assessment that allows users to recognize 

human-induced changes in the functions of wetland ecosystems. Guidebooks have been developed to 

implement the hydrogeomorphic approach to assessment and management of wetlands in various 

regions of Alaska. Table F-3 identifies areas for which the use of guidebooks has provided an 

assessment tool to begin or complete wetland permitting and planning activity.

Table F-3 Wetland Assessment Activity

Regions Covered by 

Guidebooks Wetland Classes Time Frame

Interior Flats Completed (1999)

Cook Inlet Basin (including Kenai 

River Watershed)

Slope/Flats Complexes Completed (2003)

Coastal Southeast and Southcentral a. Riverine

b. Slope River Proximal

Completed (2003)

Near Shore Ecosystems of 

Southeast and Southcentral

Tidal Fringe Initiated, discontinued until 

further notice

Cook Inlet Basin (including Kenai 

River Watershed)

Riverine Site data collected, 

discontinued until further 

notice 

Arctic Coastal Plain Flats Not initiated

Assistance to Local Government and Native Organizations 

DEC provides statewide technical assistance to local governments for permitting issues and wetland 

planning. Three local governments have delegated authority from USACE to manage their wetlands. 

Several other communities (such as the Ketchikan Gateway Borough and the City of Wrangell) are 

proposing new wetland planning. DEC is also assisting the City and Borough of Juneau in developing a 
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Wetlands Mitigation Bank. In 2004, DEC, along with federal agencies, successfully helped the Sealaska 

Native Corporation develop a private mitigation bank.

Tribal Organization Assistance with Wetland Management

DEC assists tribal organizations with wetland and watershed planning. It has helped develop wetland 

work plans with a sound scientific foundation, guided by the wetland assessment guidebooks.

Wetland Mitigation Banking

DEC participated in developing the Southeast Alaska Regional Mitigation Banking Instrument of 

Sealaska Corporation. In another wetland mitigation banking effort, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough in 

collaboration with a private contractor has begun developing a mitigation bank for the MatanuskaSusitna Borough. DEC participated in the initial meetings and is providing technical assistance to the 

Mitigation Banking Review Team for the wetland functional assessment aspects of the bank.
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APPENDIX G Interpretation of the 

Residues Criterion in 

Alaska Water Quality 

Standards for Use in 

Attainment and 

Impairment 

Determinations

RESIDUE CRITERIA

Alaska’s water quality standard for residues is described in 18 AAC 70.020(b).

PROTECTED WATER USE CLASSES AND SUBCLASSES; WATER QUALITY CRITERIA; 

WATER QUALITY TABLE

(2) MARINE

WATER USES

RESIDUES

Floating Solids, Debris, Sludge, Deposits, Foam, Scum, or Other Residues

(A) Water Supply

(i) aquaculture

May not, alone or in combination with other substances or wastes, make the water 

unfit or unsafe for the use. May not cause detrimental effects on established water 

supply treatment levels.

(A) Water Supply

(ii) seafood processing

May not, alone or in combination with other substances or wastes, make the water 

unfit or unsafe for the use; cause a film, sheen, or discoloration on the surface of the 

water or adjoining shoreline; cause leaching of toxic or deleterious substances; or 

cause a sludge, solid, or emulsion to be deposited beneath or upon the surface of the 

water, within the water column, on the bottom, or upon adjoining shorelines.

(A) Water Supply

(iii) industrial

May not, alone or in combination with other substances or wastes, make the water 

unfit or unsafe for the use. 

(B) Water Recreation

(i) contact recreation

Same as (2)(A)(ii).

(B) Water Recreation

(ii) secondary recreation

Same as (2)(A)(ii).

(C) Growth and

Propagation of Fish, 

Shellfish Other Aquatic 

Life, and Wildlife

May not, alone or in combination with other substances or wastes, make the water 

unfit or unsafe, for the use, or cause acute or chronic problem levels as determined 

by bioassay or other appropriate methods. May not, alone or in combination with 

other substances, cause a film, sheen, or discoloration on the surface of the water or 

adjoining shorelines; cause leaching of toxic or deleterious substances; or cause a 

sludge, solid, or emulsion to be deposited beneath or upon the surface of the water, 

within the water column, on the bottom, or upon adjoining shorelines.
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(D) Harvesting for 

Consumption of Raw 

Mollusks or Other Raw 

Aquatic Life

May not make the water unfit or unsafe for the use; cause a film, sheen, or 

discoloration on the surface of the water or adjoining shoreline; cause leaching of 

toxic or deleterious substances; or cause a sludge, solid, or emulsion to be deposited 

beneath or upon the surface of the water, within the water column, on the bottom, or 

upon adjoining shorelines.

The application of the water quality standard for residues for permitted facilities is established through 

the implementation of the narrative criteria (above) in concert with the ZOD provisions (below), also 

within the WQS. 

The water quality criteria for residues are narrative criteria with several provisions that are subject to 

interpretation. As such, it is overly simplistic to characterize the residues standard as ―zero discharge.‖ 

The first sentence of the criteria for most uses provides that residues ―[m]ay not, alone or in combination 

with other substances or wastes, make the water unfit or unsafe, for the use...‖ [emphasis added] This is 

a ―use-based‖ criterion—meaning, a use impairment determination must be made to trigger a water 

quality violation or a significant non-compliance situation. 

The second sentence within the narrative criteria for some uses states that residues ―may not cause a 

sludge, solid, or emulsion to be deposited‖ on the surface, bottom, or shoreline. This prohibition against

deposits is the most restrictive provision of the residue criteria. But the prohibition is not treated as a 

zero discharge standard in all instances. For example, DEC permits ZODs under 18 AAC 70.210,

mixing zones under 18 AAC 70.240–270, and variances under 18 AAC 70.200.

In addition, DEC recognizes an implied de minimus exception to the ―no deposit‖ criterion, so that a 

person skipping a stone or cleaning a fish is not considered to be in violation of state law. To date, DEC 

has not written any guidance about the scope of that de minimus category, but rather implements it on an 

ad hoc basis. EPA and the courts have long recognized the inherent authority of agencies to exempt de 

minimus activities from the coverage of the law. For example, see Ober v. Whitman, 243 F.3d 1190, 

1194-95 (9th Cir. 2001). DEC asserts and exercises such authority in its interpretation and 

implementation of the residues standard. A use impairment determination based on a narrative water 

quality criterion is subject to an analysis and a determination by DEC.

The residue standard applies to any residue discharge (whether permitted or unpermitted); however, one 

of the most prevalent applications of the residues standard is to permitted discharges of residues in 

marine waters from seafood processing facilities and LTFs and the authorization of ZODs for these 

permits. 

Alaska has an explicit provision within its WQS that allows for the authorization of ZODs for residues 

in 18 AAC 70. 210.

Seafood processing facilities and LTFs in Alaska are typically issued ZODs in the facility’s permit for 

the residues discharges. Seafood processing facilities are generally issued a 1-acre ZOD and LTFs are 

issued a ―project area‖ ZOD. Additionally, it is important to recognize that exceedance of a ZOD is not 

equivalent to impairment; rather, exceedance of 1.5 acres of continuous residues coverage is the 

impairment standard.
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ZONES OF DEPOSIT

18 AAC 70.210. ZONES OF DEPOSIT. 

(a) The department will, in its discretion, issue or certify a permit that allows deposit of 

substances on the bottom of marine waters within limits set by the department. The water 

quality criteria of 18 AAC 70.020(b) and the antidegradation requirement of 18 AAC 70.015 

may be exceeded in a zone of deposit. However, the standards must be met at every point 

outside the zone of deposit. In no case may the water quality standards be violated in the 

water column outside the zone of deposit by any action, including leaching from, or 

suspension of, deposited materials. Limits of deposit will be defined in a short-term variance 

issued under 18 AAC 70.200 or a permit issued or certified under 18 AAC 15.

(b) In deciding whether to allow a zone of deposit, the department will consider, to the extent the 

department determines to be appropriate,

(1) alternatives that would eliminate, or reduce, any adverse effects of the deposit;

(2) the potential direct and indirect impacts on human health;

(3) the potential impacts on aquatic life and other wildlife, including the potential for 

bioaccumulation and persistence;

(4) the potential impacts on other uses of the waterbody;

(5) the expected duration of the deposit and any adverse effects; and

(6) the potential transport of pollutants by biological, physical, and chemical processes.

(c) The department will, in its discretion, require an applicant to provide information that the 

department considers necessary to adequately assess (b)(1)-(6) of this section. In all cases, 

the burden of proof for providing the required information is on the person seeking to 

establish a zone of deposit. (Eff. 11/1/97, Register 143)

The Zones of Deposit section states, in part, ―(t)he department will, in its discretion, issue or certify a 

permit that allows the deposition of substances on the bottom of marine waters within limits set by the 

department.‖ The ZOD section allows the water quality criteria of 18.70.020 and the antidegradation 

policy of 18 AAC 70.015 to be exceeded in a ZOD.

The federal WQS regulation in Title 40, Section 131.13, of the Code of Federal Regulations authorizes 

states to have policies, including variances and ZODs, in their WQS that generally affect the application 

and implementation of state WQS. The rationale for allowing ZODs or variances from WQS is for a 

state to maintain standards that are ultimately attainable. By maintaining the standard rather than 

changing it, the state would ensure further progress is made in improving water quality. With the 

variance provision or ZOD provision, federal NPDES and state permits may be written so that 
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G. Residues Interpretation

116

reasonable progress is made toward attaining the standards without violating Section 402(a)(1) of the 

CWA.

An authorized ZOD is fairly equivalent to a mixing zone (which is also authorized in some cases for 

discharge permits) in that it is an area permitted to temporarily exceed the residue standard in a limited 

area that does not significantly degrade the quality of the waterbody as a whole or the designated uses. 

Permitted ZODs should be able to recover after discharges cease through biodegradation and/or 

recolonization of any lingering residues on the marine bottom. It is not necessarily the solids themselves 

that are the problem; the problem is the smothering of the benthic community. DEC would not permit a 

residue discharge that resulted in a permanently sterile bottom substrate resulting from toxic 

contaminants.

It should be noted that the residues water quality standard was identified as a high priority for a 

forthcoming Triennial Review of the WQS. Any outcomes from that review could result in actual 

changes to the criterion and possibly affect this residues policy and result in changes to the criteria for 

the waterbody categories.

History of the One-Acre Threshold

In 1985 Governor Sheffield convened the Alaska Timber Task Force to develop a common set of LTF

siting criteria. The Task Force created a Technical Subcommittee that was comprised of stakeholders 

including EPA, USFS, USF&WS, National Marine Fisheries Service, USACE, Governor’s Office, DEC, 

DNR Division of Forestry, ADF&G Habitat Division, United Fisherman of Alaska, representatives of 

the timber industry, a member of the public-at-large, and Sealaska Native Corporation. This group 

produced the document known as the 1985 Log Transfer Facility Siting, Construction, Operation and 

Monitoring/Reporting Guidelines, more commonly known as the ―LTF Guidelines.‖

This document establishes the interim intertidal and submarine bark accumulation threshold of 1 acre. 

The document states, ―An interim guideline for threshold bark accumulation levels and cleanup when 

exceeding those levels is being used due to a lack of information. Technical data are needed to evaluate 

practicable threshold accumulation levels and to evaluate technical feasibility of various options for 

managing accumulation, such as removal or other control procedures‖ (C6. Bark Accumulation: 

Discussion: paragraph 2). Specifically, guideline C6 states:

The regulatory agency(ies) will impose an interim intertidal and submarine threshold bark 

accumulation level. When accumulations exceed the threshold level, cleanup – if any – will 

occur at the discretion of the permitting agency(ies). The interim threshold bark accumulation 

level is described as 100% coverage exceeding both 1 acre in size and a thickness greater than 

10 cm (3.9 inches) at any point.

The LTF Guidelines include recommended criteria for selecting the location for future LTFs. The siting 

criteria were designed, in part, to reduce bark accumulation of LTFs. The LTF Guidelines Committee 

identified the 1-acre figure as an ―interim threshold bark accumulation level‖ until additional research 

could be completed. The discussion section in the guidelines states:
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Through siting, transfer system selection and solid waste management, the amount of bark lost 

and accumulating in intertidal and submarine areas is prevented or significantly diminished. Bark 

accumulation is still expected to occur in some areas promoting the need for this guideline.

The Technical Subcommittee was tasked with developing LTF guidelines that ―would be beneficial for 

all parties involved in the permitting, construction, and operation of LTFs to have a common set of 

criteria (guidelines) from which to work when designing (emphasis added) facilities and reviewing 

permit applications for these facilities‖ (Introduction, page 1, paragraph 3). The section titled The Use of 

Guidelines (page 2, paragraph 2) states, ―The guidelines are comprehensive and may apply to any site 

being evaluated for LTF permits.‖ It was never the intent of the Technical Subcommittee for agencies to 

retroactively apply this threshold to existing facilities because they were located and constructed prior to 

adoption of the guidelines and there was no anticipated permit workload associated with existing 

facilities. Some of these facilities had been in operation for 20 years prior to the development of siting 

guidelines without any permit limits on marine accumulation. Although additional research was not 

completed as planned, the use of the interim 1-acre threshold level has continued to be applied routinely 

in most log transfer and seafood discharge permits.

Background on General Permits for Log Transfer Facilities

In March 2000, EPA issued two GPs for LTFs. DEC certified the EPA permits, and adopted them as 

state GPs; DEC implements the state GPs separately from the EPA GPs. The state issues a written 

authorization to the LTF owner to operate under the applicable GP after finding that the authorization is 

consistent with the Antidegradation Policy (18 AAC 70.015) of the Alaska WQS. The state also 

approves a project area-wide ZOD (18 AAC 70.210) following an assessment of the information 

provided by the applicant.

One of the GPs, referred to as ―pre-1985‖ GP (AK-G70-0000), applies to shore-based LTFs that 

received a Section 404 permit from USACE before October 22, 1985, and never received an individual 

NPDES permit. The original Section 404 permits never established any limits on the discharge of bark 

and wood waste into the marine environment. The pre-1985 GP modified the terms of the Section 404 

permits and for the first time established a permit threshold of 1 acre for accumulation of continuous 

cover bark for these facilities. The original 404 permits now comply with all relevant sections of the 

CWA. A 1-acre threshold, instead of a 1-acre permit limit, for continuous cover bark was incorporated 

into the permit because it was known that some pre-1985 facilities had continuous cover bark deposits 

greater than 1 acre. The GP requires these facilities to complete remediation planning and plan 

implementation.

The other GP, called the ―post-1985‖ GP (AK-G70-1000), applies to the following classes of LTFs:

New LTFs that have not received individual NPDES permits

LTFs that have current individual NPDES permits and choose to seek coverage under the GP

LTFs that have individual NPDES permits that have expired or have been administratively 

extended by EPA, and that wish to continue or resume operation

Offshore LTFs and offshore LSAs that existed either before or after 1985, and that wish to 

continue or resume operation
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Individual NPDES wastewater discharge permits issued before adoption of the two GPs contained a 

fixed 1-acre (not to exceed 10 cm in thickness at any point) ZOD authorized by DEC. 

Bark monitoring is required annually for all permittees whose operations transfer a total of 15 million 

board feet or more during the life of the LTF general permit, and that are located in water depths less 

than 60 feet at mean lower low water. The majority of LTFs operating under an individual or general 

NPDES permit are required to submit to DEC and EPA an annual dive survey report documenting the 

nature and extent of continuous and discontinuous bark residue accumulations at their sites. LTFs 

transferring less than 15 million board feet of timber volume are not required to conduct annual dive 

surveys; however, a great majority of the LTFs are required to conduct annual dive surveys.

The two April 2004 EPA GPs for LTFs are substantially different from previous individual permits in 

terms of the ZODs authorized under the permits. The GPs adopted a ―project area‖ ZOD, which 

recognizes and authorizes the deposition of bark residues in the project area. The project area is defined 

as the entire marine operating area of an LTF, either shore-based or offshore, including the following 

components: shore-based log transfer devices; shore-based log transfer, rafting, and storage areas; 

helicopter drop areas; vessel and barge loading and unloading areas; off-shore LSAs not adjacent to a 

shore-based LTF; bulkheads, ramps, floating walkways, docks, pilings, dolphins, anchors, buoys, and 

other marine appurtenances; and the marine water and ocean bottom underlying and connecting these 

features. The LTF operator identifies the size of the project area in the Notice of Intent or Notification. 

This project area usually coincides with the DNR tidelands lease area.

The state GPs also establish a 1-acre ―threshold‖ limit for continuous, or 100%, bark cover within the 

project area. If that threshold is exceeded, the operator is required to submit a remediation plan to DEC, 

which is intended to reduce continuous bark cover to less than 1 acre. DEC must approve the 

remediation plan, which becomes part of the operator’s state GP authorization. The purpose for 

establishing the project area ZOD in the GPs is to recognize that log rafting and log storage may occupy 

considerable area, and are expected to cause the accumulation of discontinuous bark (less than 100%

cover) and trace bark (less than 10% cover). Discontinuous and trace bark are considered to have a 

minimal impact on marine organisms and habitat, and can occur without limit in the project area.

As a result of the 2002 final decision in the adjudication of the DEC Section 401 certification of the two 

EPA GPs, DEC cannot authorize facilities located on Section 303(d) impaired waterbodies to discharge 

under either GP. An LTF on an impaired waterbody must obtain an individual state wastewater permit. 

As part of LTF permitting, DEC conducts an anti-degradation review and finding, and makes all 

findings required under the ZOD regulations for each facility applying for residue discharge 

authorization.

Application of Zones of Deposits for Residues to Seafood Processing 

Facilities

As described above, the 1-acre ZOD in permits had its initial application through the LTF Guidelines for 

new facilities in the 1980s. EPA consequently adopted the 1-acre threshold as a compliance limit in 

NPDES permits for LTFs and the EPA NPDES GP for seafood processors (AK-G52-0000) in the mid1990s.
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G. Residues Interpretation

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In 2001, DEC again certified a ZOD of 1.0 acre when this EPA GP for nearshore and shore-based 

seafood processing facilities was renewed. Currently this GP authorizes approximately 235 processors. 

Historically, this seafood GP specified that nearshore and shore-based facilities implement a seafloor 

monitoring program to ensure compliance with the WQS for settleable residues in marine waters. 

It should be noted that individual NPDES seafood permits have authorized residues deposits greater than 

the 1-acre threshold found in the AK G52-0000 seafood GP. For example, in the mid-1990s DEC issued 

a Section 401 certification for a 2-acre ZOD for an outfall associated with a seafood processing facility, 

based on the bathymetry of the bay. For seafood facilities with individual NPDES permits, a case-bycase determination of an acceptable ZOD size for residues has been the approach used since 1987.

The agencies have historically made a distinction between newly permitted sites and existing permitted 

sites in arriving at an allowable ZOD size determination.

Reporting of Dive Survey Acreages

Previous reports of the actual acreage of bark coverage observed in dive surveys and listed in Alaska’s 

1998 Section 303(d) report could lead the public to believe that all reported continuous cover was a 

violation of permit conditions or of the Alaska WQS. For example, an LTF with 3.1 acres of continuous 

bark coverage is actually 2.1 acres over the 1-acre ZOD threshold for continuous bark coverage. Hence, 

the 1998 303(d) listing narrative might have stated that ―dive survey information from November 1997 

demonstrates a significant exceedance of the interim threshold bark accumulation level at 3.1 acres of 

bottom coverage.‖

In Alaska’s Integrated Reports, DEC reports dive survey acreages as ―exceedances over the one acre 

ZOD threshold.‖ For example, ―the dive survey information from November 2001 demonstrates an 

exceedance of 2.1 acres above the permitted bark accumulation level of continuous bark coverage of 

1.0 acre.‖ This reporting approach more accurately portrays actual exceedances of the permitted 

threshold. The level of timber harvest is significantly lower than in the past. Reduced loading associated 

with reduced volume transferred is likely to act to reduce continuous cover accumulation over time. 

Limited research to determine the effect of transfer method and volume transferred on bark 

accumulation has established a weak statistical correlation between volumes transferred and bark 

accumulation. A similar correlation has not been established for the transfer method. As described 

above, the 1-acre ZOD in permits had its initial application through the LTF Guidelines for new 

facilities in the 1980s. EPA consequently adopted the 1-acre threshold as a compliance limit in NPDES 

permits for LTFs and the EPA NPDES GP for seafood processors (AK-G52-0000) in the mid-1990s.

Criteria for Waterbody Categories

DEC is not proposing to re-categorize waterbodies previously determined to be impaired for residues 

associated with LTFs simply because the GPs incorporate a project area ZOD. The basis for placing 

waters impaired by bark residues on the 303(d) list in 1998 was the 1-acre ZOD established in individual 

NPDES permits. For LTFs in Alaska authorized under the new GPs, the threshold limit for continuouscover bark in the GPs remains 1 acre. The project area ZOD effectively applies to continuous, 

discontinuous and trace bark. The project area ZOD could be a basis for Section 303(d) listing only if 

significant deposits of bark and wood debris were documented outside of the project area.
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For waterbodies associated with LTFs or seafood processing, dive survey protocols and reporting should 

be in accordance with the requirements contained in the appropriate permits.

In making attainment determinations on waters associated with am LTF and where DEC has received a 

Notification or Notice of Intent to Operate under a General Permit, DEC makes its categorization 

decision after evaluating the sufficiency and credibility of the dive survey data on file and required 

under the GPs and the information provided in the Notice of Intent.

Category 1 Waterbody 

Category 1 waterbodies are waters attaining water quality standards. Waterbodies are placed in this 

category if data support a determination that the WQS and all of the uses are attained.

Waterbodies are placed in this category when water quality data and information show that all uses are 

being attained. 

Category 2 Waterbody 

Category 2 waterbodies are those waters that are attaining some designated uses and for which 

insufficient or no data and information are available to determine whether remaining uses are attained:

A waterbody is placed in Category 2 if a determination is made that the waterbody is attaining some 

uses or standards. Waterbodies with recent dive survey reports and for which attainment with a 1.0-acre 

threshold for continuous coverage of residues has been demonstrated are placed in Category 2. For a 

waterbody associated with residue discharge, if a facility is reporting 1 acre or less of continuous residue 

coverage the waterbody is placed in Category 2.

A waterbody that was determined to be impaired from residues and for which continuous coverage of 

residues less than 1.0 acre has been documented is placed in Category 2.

Category 3 Waterbody 

Category 3 waterbodies are waters with insufficient or no data and information to determine if any 

designated use is attained. Waterbodies are placed in this category if the data or information to support 

an attainment determination for any use is not available. Alaska has generally reliable information and 

data on facilities that discharge residues because of dive survey reporting requirements associated with 

residue discharge permits.

Supplementary data and information should be developed or monitoring should be scheduled to assess 

the attainment status of these waters, as needed.

Criteria for Placing Waters in This Category

Alaska’s water resources include more than 3 million lakes greater than 5 acres in size, 365,000 miles of 

rivers and streams, more than 174,000,000 acres of fresh water wetlands, and 36,000 miles of coastal 

shoreline. Therefore, Alaska has a large number of waterbodies for which insufficient, inadequate, or 

little to no data or information exists to support attainment or impairment determinations. DEC expects 
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that the majority of these waters would be in Category 1 (i.e., waters attaining standards for all uses), if 

sufficient resources existed to assess them. Category 3 includes waters formerly known as ―open files‖ 

and waters nominated for assessment through ACWA. Actions that trigger opening a file can include 

nomination from the public, a public complaint, a newspaper report, or more rigorous information, such 

as water quality reports or assessments. These waters are placed in Category 3. DEC maintains files on 

some of these waterbodies, which are identified in Appendix C.

Category 4b Waterbody

Category 4b waterbodies are impaired waters but do not need TMDLs because other pollution controls 

in place and the waters are expected to attain WQS within a reasonable time period.

A waterbody is placed in Category 4b if LTF dive survey reports document greater than 1.5 acres of 

continuous residues coverage; a determination is made that the water is impaired; and there is an 

approved remediation plan under the LTF GPs or an individual state wastewater discharge permit. 

Waterbodies that are under EPA compliance orders for seafood residue violations may also be 

considered for placement in Category 4b.

The requirements for preparing and submitting remediation plans, taken from DEC Certificates of 

Reasonable Assurance for the two LTF GPs, are identified in the document Guidance For Preparing 

Remediation Plans Under Alaska’s General Permits For Log Transfer Facilities. Several key details of 

the requirements are summarized below:

If existing continuous bark and wood debris cover exceeds both 1 acre and a thickness of 

10 cm at any point, an operator must submit a remediation plan to DEC within 120 days, 

unless DEC grants additional time. 

A proposed remediation plan must evaluate historical and future log transfer processes and 

volumes; environmental impacts of existing deposits of bark and wood debris and the 

environmental impacts of methods to reduce continuous coverage; and methods to reduce 

continuous bark coverage, including alternative methods of log transfer and transport, 

operational practices, and technically feasible methods and costs of removing bark.

The remediation plan must identify a set of feasible, reasonable, and effective measures to 

reduce continuous bark cover to both less than 1 acre in area and 10 cm in thickness at any 

point.

If removal of bark is proposed, the remediation plan must specify areas, methods, volume, 

and timing of removal; the method of disposal for the removed material, including practices 

to ensure meeting WQS; and the cost of removal by the proposed methods and alternatives 

considered.

The plan must include a performance schedule and performance measures for the its 

implementation.

The plan may describe measures that can be implemented in phases, with continued bark 

monitoring surveys and with future modification of the remediation plan based upon progress 

in reducing the continuous coverage.
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DEC will approve, approve with modification, or deny a proposed remediation plan within 

90 days of receipt.

An approved remediation plan constitutes an enforceable condition of the GP.

The LTF GPs do not require EPA approval of the remediation plan. EPA requires that the LTF operator 

update the Pollution Prevention Plan to outline additional controls that will be implemented to reduce or 

eliminate additional residues accumulation. The revised Pollution Prevention Plan will not include 

measures intended to reduce the current bark accumulation to less than 1.0 acre.

The objective of remediation planning is to implement the most appropriate site-specific treatment with 

the goal of reducing the extent of continuous residues coverage to less than 1.0 acre.

Category 5 Waterbody 

A waterbody is listed in Category 5 and on the Section 303(d) list when a determination is made that the 

water is impaired by residues. Category 5 waters require that a TMDL or other equivalent pollution 

controls are developed to attain WQS.

Section 303(d) of the CWA requires a list of waterbodies that are not expected to meet WQS without 

additional controls. Many Section 303(d) designated waters have not undergone comprehensive water 

quality assessments to determine either the extent of water quality impairment or whether existing 

controls are adequate to achieve the standards. DEC closely scrutinizes waterbodies to determine 

whether suspected water quality violations were thoroughly investigated and documented. This approach 

is designed to prevent the listing of waterbodies with only inconclusive or circumstantial data or 

observations.

For waterbodies with facilities that are permitted to discharge residues, such as a seafood processor or 

LTF, the impairment standard is 1.5 acres of continuous cover. If two or more consecutive dive survey 

reports adequately document the presence of 1.5 acres or more of continuous residue cover, the 

waterbody is placed on the Category 5/Section 303(d) list.

A waterbody with an LTF that has a current ZOD authorization is placed in Category 5 if two or more 

consecutive dive survey reports document more than 1.5 acres of continuous residues coverage and 

greater than 10 cm of depth at any one point, unless DEC has approved a remediation plan for that 

waterbody. A waterbody is placed in Category 5 when a submitter has failed to implement an approved 

remediation plan (LTF) according to its schedule. Exceptions may include waterbodies where ZODs 

were authorized at greater than 1.5 acres. 

If DEC approves a remediation plan on a Category 5/Section 303(d) listed waterbody that is reporting 

more than 1.5 acres of continuous coverage of bark on the bottom prior to the next Section 303(d) list, 

the waterbody is placed in Category 4(b) in the next Section 303(d) list. 

A waterbody associated with a facility operating under either of the LTF GPs that is reporting 

continuous coverage of residues of more than 1.5 acres is considered for Category 5/Section 303(d) 

listing if one of the following conditions is met: (1) the permittee failed to submit a remediation plan, or 
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(2) a remediation plan has been submitted, but the permittee is failing to implement or is not meeting 

milestones set forth in the approved remediation plan.

A waterbody associated with an LTF where there is no currently permitted or active discharge to the 

water, but where the last known dive survey reported more than 1.0 acres of continuous residues 

coverage on the marine seafloor, is placed on the Category5/Section 303(d) list. 

A waterbody associated with a seafood processor with a current ZOD authorization with two or more 

dive survey reports that document more than a 1.5-acre area of seafood waste is placed in Category 5. 

Exemptions include waterbodies where ZODs were authorized at greater than 1.5 acres. Waterbodies 

with legacy site seafood piles (no current dischargers) that are determined to be more than 1 acre of 

continuous residue coverage may be considered for Category 5/Section 303(d) listing.

For all Category 5/Section 303(d) waterbodies listed for residues after 1998 based on two dive surveys, 

the operator must document through two consecutive dive surveys that the areal extent of continuous 

cover residues has been reduced to less than 1.5 acres to have the waterbody removed from the Category 

5/Section 303(d) list. For all Category 5/Section 303(d) waterbodies listed for residues in 1998 or 

earlier, based on 1 acre and on one dive survey, the operator must document through one dive survey 

that the areal extent of continuous cover residues has been reduced to less than 1 acre in order to be 

removed from the Category 5/Section 303(d) list. If the areal extent of continuous cover is not declining 

in size, DEC will initiate permit modification or TMDL development.

The use of a greater than 1.5 acres of continuous coverage impairment standard for log transfer and 

seafood processing facilities with ZODs is based on several factors: 

Permits Establish Limits, not Water Quality Standards. The fixed 1-acre ZOD used for 

previous impairment determinations is a permit limit and not a water quality standard. 

Alaska’s ZOD regulations (18 AAC 70.210) allow the deposition of substances on the 

bottom of marine waters within limits set by DEC. However, the standards must be met at 

every point outside the ZOD. Permits use the WQS as a basis for setting effluent ―limits‖ or 

for allowing flexibility from the WQS.

DEC specifies the criteria that can be exceeded in a permit, short-term variance, or 

certification. If a discharger is granted a ZOD within a permit, the permittee can only exceed 

the criteria that have been identified in its permit, short-term variance, or certification.

Confidence of Dive Survey Information. Although EPA NPDES individual permits 

contained protocols for dive surveys at LTFs, it appears that dive methods were not 

implemented consistently. In addition, NPDES permits included no method for calculation of 

bark area, which often was overestimated. These inconsistencies compared to current 

protocols in the GPs raise the issue of the reliability of dive survey information that resulted 

in previous listing decisions, and make it difficult to track trends in actual bark accumulation 

patterns. For instance, a 1997 dive survey on bark residues that resulted in the 1998 

impairment determination and Section 303(d) listing reported the presence of measurable 

bark or trace coverage. The reported 9.5-acre bark footprint was based on plots with 

measurable bark rather than continuous-cover bark.
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The dive survey requirements contained in Seafood GPs are based on seafood waste residue 

dispersal patterns and seafloor monitoring. The lack of a perimeter dive survey requirement 

leads to uncertainty in the impairment determination.

Uncertainty in Current Approved Method and Acreage Calculations of Dive Survey 

Reports. DEC has noted that the current required method of acreage calculation is not used 

correctly. As part of the dive survey review, DEC re-calculates continuous cover based on 

dive survey reports. For facilities that were Section 303(d) listed in 1998, DEC calculations 

indicate that five of the seven 2002 dive survey reports for these facilities overstated the 

extent of continuous cover. Of all the reports reviewed to date since the inception of the two 

LTF GPs, only one report understated the extent of continuous cover. Because of uncertainty

about the extent of continuous cover, and by using an impairment standard of 1.5 acres of 

continuous coverage, DEC is confident that impairment decisions truly reflect actual 

impairment.

Natural Reduction of Residues Deposits. Dive survey reports for LTFs that transferred 

little or no timber volume over a number of years often showed considerable reduction in the 

areal extent of continuous coverage. The reduction was likely due to natural sedimentation 

and/or current dispersement. For example, the areal extent of continuous bark coverage on 

the bottom of Corner Bay declined from 1.2 acres in 1996 to 0.6 acre in 2001. No logs were 

transferred during this period, and no active remediation occurred.

The level of timber harvest is significantly lower than in the past. Reduced loading associated 

with reduced volume transferred is likely to act to reduce continuous cover accumulation 

over time. Limited research to determine the effect of transfer method and volume transferred 

on bark accumulation has established a weak statistical correlation between volumes 

transferred and bark accumulation. A similar correlation has not been established for the 

transfer method. 

A 1.0-Acre Accumulation Threshold and a 1.5-Acre Impairment Standard. There is 

clear and pervasive language within the LTF Guidelines that establishes the 1-acre ZOD

standard as a threshold standard for cleanup, and not for use as an impairment standard.

Impacts to the Biological Community. The use of ZODs has been historically recognized 

and generally accepted for dischargers of residues to the marine environment in Alaska. The 

hearing officer findings, for instance, from the LTF adjudication of the DEC proposed 

Section 401 certifications of the two federal GPs found that the discharge of bark and wood 

debris sited and operated in conformity with the permit has limited and localized impacts on 

the benthic community within the project area. The hearing officer also asserted that such 

discharges would have no discernable effect on the benthic environment as a whole in the 

geographic area covered by the GPs. Patchy and discontinuous bark residue deposition on the 

bottom is authorized under the LTF GPs. Additionally, an antidegradation finding is made

for each LTF facility permit.

It is recognized that excessive residue coverage of more than 1.5 acres that is continuous and in 

excessive depth accumulations can have adverse impacts. Facilities that are operating under permit 

conditions with ZODs are accepted as not adversely affecting the biological community or causing 

irreparable harm.
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Under the LTF GPs, exceeding the 1-acre continuous-cover threshold triggers the requirement to 

develop a remediation plan.

Removal of Waterbodies from the Category 5/Section 303(d) List 

Determined to Be Impaired from Residues

The following protocols are applied to all waterbodies associated with a permitted facility and Category 

5/Section 303(d) listed for residues, regardless of an active discharge on site:

For waterbodies Section 303(d) listed after 1998 and determined to be impaired for residues 

based on two or more dive surveys:

o DEC requires two consecutive dive surveys documenting that continuous residues 

coverage is no more than 1.5 acres before the waterbody is eligible for removal from the 

Category 5/Section 303(d) list and for placement in either Category 1 or 2.

For waterbodies Section 303(d) listed in 1998 or earlier (based on 1.0 acre) and determined 

to be impaired for residues based on one dive survey or best professional judgment:

o DEC requires one dive survey documenting that continuous residues coverage is no more 

than 1.0 acre before the waterbody is eligible for removal from the Category 5/Section 

303(d) list and placement in Category 1 or 2.

In addition to consideration of the continuous residues coverage standard of 1.5 acres, DEC 

may consider biological assessment information, such as sediment profile imaging, in a 

determination to remove a water on the Section 303(d) list for residues.
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APPENDIX H Alaska Clean Water 

Actions (ACWA) 

Priority Ranking

The following table identifies the rankings assigned to Alaska waterbodies by the Alaska Department of 

Fish and Game, Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, and Alaska Department of Natural 

Resources, which are abbreviated as F&G, DEC, and DNR, respectively in the table below. The final 

column, labeled ―MAX,‖ identifies the agency that made the highest ranking and that ranking. Each 

agency ranked factors for a different component: F&G rated aquatic habitat, DNR rated water quantity, 

and DEC rated water quality. Additional column abbreviations are Lwr for lower and Med for medium. 

This table was generated in October 2009.

Waterbody Name F&G DEC DNR MAX

Akutan Harbor Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Anchor Pt to Happy Valley Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Anchor River High High Lwr F&G High

Anvil Creek High High High F&G High

Auke Bay Med High Lwr DEC High

Auke Creek Med High Med DEC High

Auke Lake Med High Lwr DEC High

Auke Nu Cove High High Lwr F&G High

Auke Nu Creek Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Barabara Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Bear Cove Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Bear Creek (Becharof) Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Bear Creek (Hogatza) High Lwr Lwr F&G High

Bear Creek (Homer) Lwr Med Med DEC Med

Bear Creek (Hope) Med Med Med F&G Med

Beaver Creek (Kenai) Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Beaver Inlet Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Beaver Lake Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Bell Flats Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Beluga Lake (Homer) Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Benny Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Berners Bay High Med Lwr F&G High

Bidarka Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Big Lake High High Lwr F&G High

Birch Creek (Talkeetna) Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Birch Creek, Upper Drainage Med High Lwr DEC High

Birch Lake Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Black Bear Creek High Med Med F&G High

Bodenburg Creek High Med Lwr F&G High

Bolio Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr
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Waterbody Name F&G DEC DNR MAX

Bons Creek Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Bradfield River High Lwr Lwr F&G High

Bridge Creek Med Med High DEC Med

Cabin Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Cache Creek Med Med Med F&G Med

California Creek Med Med Med F&G Med

Campbell Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Campbell Lake Med High Lwr DEC High

Captains Bay Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Caribou Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Carlanna Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Cedar Bay Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Chatanika River Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Chena River High High Lwr F&G High

Chena Slough Med High Lwr DEC High

Cheney Lake High High Lwr F&G High

Chester Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Chilkat River Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

China Poot Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

China Poot Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Chuitna River High High Lwr F&G High

Clear Creek Lwr Med Med DEC Med

Clearwater Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Clearwater Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Cold Bay Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Colleen Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Colville River/Umiat Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Connors Lake Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Cooper Creek High Lwr Lwr F&G High

Copper River High High Lwr F&G High

Corner Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Cottonwood Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Cottonwood Lake High Med Lwr F&G High

Crab Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Crooked Creek Med High Lwr DEC High

Crow Creek Med Med Med F&G Med

Cube Cove Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Dark Lake Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Deep Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Deshka River (Kroto Creek) High High Lwr F&G High

Diamond Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Dog Salmon Creek Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Dogfish Bay (Koyuktolik Bay) Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Dora Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Dora Lake Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Duck Creek Med High High DEC High

Dutch Harbor Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Eagle River Med High Lwr DEC High
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Waterbody Name F&G DEC DNR MAX

Eagle River Flats Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

East Creek Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

East Port Frederick Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Egegik River Med High Lwr DEC High

Eklutna River Med Med High DEC Med

Eldred Passage Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Elfin Cove Med Med Lwr F&G Med

English Bay River Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Eskimo Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Eyak Lake Med High Lwr DEC High

Falls Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Falls Creek (Gustavus) Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Falls Creek (Kachemak) Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Finger Lake Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Fire Cove Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Fire Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Fish Creek (Anchorage) Med High Lwr DEC High

Fish Creek (Wasilla) Med Med High DEC Med

Fortymile Med Med Med F&G Med

Fox River High Med Lwr F&G High

Freshwater Creek Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Fritz Creek High Med High F&G High

Fubar Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Funny River High Med Lwr F&G High

Furrow Creek Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Garrison Slough Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Gastineau Channel High Med Lwr F&G High

Gibson Cove Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Glacier Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Goldstream Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Goodnews River Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Goose Bay Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Goose Creek Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Goose Lake Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Granite Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Greens Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Gulkana River (Lower River) Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Gulkana River (upper) Med High Lwr DEC High

Gunnuk Creek Med High Lwr DEC High

Halibut Cove Med High Lwr DEC High

Hamilton Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Hammer Slough Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Harding Lake Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Harris River Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Hatchery Creek Med High Lwr DEC High

Hawk Inlet Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Herring Bay Creek High High Med F&G High

Hideaway Lake Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med
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Waterbody Name F&G DEC DNR MAX

Hoadley Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Hobart Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Hogatza River Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Homer Harbor Med High Lwr DEC High

Hood/Spenard Lake Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Horseshoe/Island Lakes Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Hospital Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Iliamna Lake Med High Lwr DEC High

Iliuliuk Bay Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Iliuliuk Harbor Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Indian River High High High F&G High

Jakolof Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Jewel Lake Med High Lwr DEC High

Jim Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Jim Lake High Med Lwr F&G High

Johnson Creek Med Med Med F&G Med

Jones Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Jordan Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Juneau Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Kachemak Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Kalmbach Lake Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Kanektok River Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Kantishna River Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Kasilof River High High Lwr F&G High

Kaskanak Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Katlian River High High Lwr F&G High

Kazakof Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Kenai River High High Lwr F&G High

Ketchikan Creek Med High Lwr DEC High

King Cove Lwr High Lwr DEC High

King Salmon Creek Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Kitkun Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Klag Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Klawock Inlet Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Kobuk River Lwr High High DEC High

Kodiak Landfill Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Koktuli River - North Fork High Med Lwr F&G High

Kotzebue Lagoon Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Kuparuk River High Lwr Lwr F&G High

Kuskokwim River Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Lab (Labouchere) Bay Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Lake Clark Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Lake Creek High Lwr Lwr F&G High

Lake Louise Med High Lwr DEC High

Lake Lucille Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Lake McDermott Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Lake Otis Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Lemon Creek High High Lwr F&G High
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Waterbody Name F&G DEC DNR MAX

Lilly Lake Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Little Campbell Creek Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Little Campbell Lake Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Little Creek (South Fork, Nome) Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Little Rabbit Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Little Survival Creek Med High Lwr DEC High

Little Susitna River High High Lwr F&G High

Little Tutka Bay Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Lookout Cove Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Lost and Found Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Lower Fire Lake Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Lower Talarik Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Lutak Inlet Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Mallard Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Margaret Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Margaret Creek Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Mariner Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Matanuska River Med High Lwr DEC High

McClure Bay Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

McKinley Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

McKinzie Inlet Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

McNeil Creek Med Lwr Med F&G Med

McRoberts Creek Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Meadow Creek Med High High DEC High

Meadow Lake Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Memory Lake Med Med Med F&G Med

Mendenhall River Med High Lwr DEC High

Mills Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Minook Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Mirror Lake Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Mission Lake Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Montana Creek (Juneau) Med High Lwr DEC High

Montana Creek (Talkeetna) High High Lwr F&G High

Moose Creek Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Moose River Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Mosquito Lake High High Med F&G High

Mud Bay (Homer) Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Mulchatna River Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Nahodka Creek Lwr Lwr High DNR High

Naknek River Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Nakwasina River High High Lwr F&G High

Nancy Lake High High Med F&G High

Nataga Creek Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Nearshore Beaufort Lagoon Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Neptune Bay Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Nilumat Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Ninilchik River Med High Lwr DEC High

Nome River High Med Lwr F&G High
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Waterbody Name F&G DEC DNR MAX

North Twin Lakes Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Noyes Slough High High High F&G High

Nushagak River Med High Lwr DEC High

One Mile Creek High High Med F&G High

Ophir Creek Med Med Med F&G Med

Orca Inlet Med Med Med F&G Med

Palmer Creek (Homer) Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Passage Canal (Whittier Harbor) Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Pavlof River Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Paxson Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Pederson Hill Creek Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Peters Creek Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Peterson Bay Med High Lwr DEC High

Peterson Creek High High Med F&G High

Pile-Driver Slough Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Point Macartney Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Popof Strait Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Port Clarence Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Port Valdez Lwr Med Med DEC Med

Port Valdez Small Boat Harbor Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Potato Patch Lake Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Potter Creek Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Pullen Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Quartz Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Quartz Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Rabbit Creek Med High High DEC High

Red Devil Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Red Dog Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Red Fox Creek Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Red Lake-Anton Road Ponds Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Resurrection Creek (Hope) High High Lwr F&G High

Rice Creek Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Rogge Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Rowan Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Ruby Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Sagavanirktok River Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Saginaw Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Saint John Baptist Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Saint Paul Island Lagoon Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Salmon Creek Med High High DEC High

Salt Lake Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Sawmill Creek (Haines) High High Lwr F&G High

Sawmill Creek (Sitka) Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Scheffler Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Schulze Cove Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Seldovia Bay High High Lwr F&G High

Seldovia Bay (Harbor) Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Shaw Creek High High Lwr F&G High
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132

Waterbody Name F&G DEC DNR MAX

Ship Creek-Glenn Highway Bridge Down to 

Mouth

High High Lwr F&G High

Shoal Cove Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Shoal Creek Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Shoemaker Bay Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Shovel Creek Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Silver Bay Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Sinuk River Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Sitka Harbor Med High Lwr DEC High

Situk River Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Skagway Harbor Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Skagway River High Med Lwr F&G High

Slate Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Sleepy Bay Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Slikok Creek High Med Lwr F&G High

Snake River Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Soldotna Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Solomon River Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Solomon River, East Fork High Lwr Lwr F&G High

South Fork Koktuli River High Med Lwr F&G High

South Twin Lakes Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

South Unalaska Bay Med High Lwr DEC High

Spring Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Stariski Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Sundi Lake Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Sunshine Cove Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Sunshine Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Suqitughneq River Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Susitna River Med High Lwr DEC High

Sweeper Cove Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Sweeper Creek High Med Lwr F&G High

Taku River Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Talkeetna River Med High Lwr DEC High

Tanana River Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Thorne Bay Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Thorne River Estuary Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Tisuk River Med Lwr Lwr F&G Med

Tolstoi Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Tongass Narrows Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Town (Trout) Lake Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Troutman Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Turnaround Creek Med Med Lwr F&G Med

Tuxedni Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Twelvemile Arm Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Twitter Creek Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Two Moon Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Udagak Bay Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Unalaska Lake Med Lwr High DNR High
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Waterbody Name F&G DEC DNR MAX

University Lake Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Unnamed Creek (City of Kenai) Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Unnamed Lake (Chena Hot Springs Rd.) 

Two Rivers Lodge

Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Upper Bonnie Lake Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr

Upper Fire Lake Lwr Lwr Med DNR Med

Upper Talarik Creek High Med Lwr F&G High

Vanderbilt Creek Med High Lwr DEC High

Walby Lake Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Ward Cove Lwr High Lwr DEC High

Wasilla Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Wasilla Lake High High Lwr F&G High

West Port Frederick Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Westchester Lagoon Med High Lwr DEC High

Whale Passage Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Whittier Creek Med Lwr Med F&G Med

Willow Creek High High Lwr F&G High

Winter Harbor Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Womens Bay Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Wood River Med High Lwr DEC High

Woodard Creek Med Med Med F&G Med

Wrangell Narrows Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Wrinkleneck Creek-Swan Lake Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Wulik River Med High Med DEC High

Yukon River Lwr Med Lwr DEC Med

Zinc Creek Lwr Lwr Lwr F&G Lwr
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APPENDIX I Supplemental Listing 

Methodology

Guidance for Determining Water Quality Impairments from 

Residues 

NOTE: The information in this section does not provide a complete description of the specific 

considerations for waters impaired by residues; Appendix G, (Alaska’s Interpretation of the Residues 

Criterion with Alaska’s Water Quality Standards Regarding Attainment and Impairment 

Determinations) should be consulted for additional detail that more fully explains the considerations.

A seafood processing or LTF in Alaska is typically issued a ZOD in its permit for the residues 

discharges. Exceedance of a permitted ZOD is not equivalent to impairment; rather, the impairment 

standard is exceedance of 1.5 acres of continuous residues coverage.

For Category 5/Section 303(d) listed waters associated with a permitted facility, if the areal extent of

continuous cover is not declining in size, DEC initiates permit modification or TMDL development.

Seafood Processing Facilities

A waterbody associated with a seafood processor that has a current ZOD authorization with two or more 

dive survey reports that document an area of seafood waste larger than 1.5 acres is placed in Category 5. 

Exceptions are waterbodies for which ZODs were authorized at greater than 1.5 acres and situations in 

which the facility is subject to an administrative action (such as a Compliance Order or Consent Order 

by Decree for residues) to ensure attainment of WQS. In the latter instance, the waterbody may be 

considered for placement in Category 4b. For seafood piles that are legacy sites (and not current 

dischargers) and that are determined to be more than 1 acre of continuous residue coverage, the affected 

waterbody may be considered for Category 5 listing. This exception condition occurs because at the time 

the contributing facility was permitted, a 1-acre impairment standard was in effect and the current 

1.5-acre impairment standard had not been adopted.

Log Transfer Facilities

A waterbody associated with an LTF that has a current ZOD authorization is placed in Category 5 if two 

or more consecutive dive survey reports document more than 1.5 acres of continuous residues coverage 

and the residue coverage is greater than 10-cm in thickness at any one point, unless DEC has approved a 

remediation plan for that waterbody. A waterbody associated with an LTF is placed in Category 5 when 

an LTF permittee has failed to implement an approved remediation plan according to its schedule. 

Exceptions are waterbodies for which ZODs were authorized at greater than 1.5 acre, which are 

considered on a case-by-case basis.

If DEC approves a remediation plan on a Category 5 listed waterbody that is reporting more than 

1.5 acres of continuous coverage of bark on the bottom before preparation of the next Section 303(d) 
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I. Supplemental Listing Methodology

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list, the waterbody is placed in Category 4(b). Moving a Category 5 water to Category 4b requires EPA 

approval.

A waterbody associated with a facility operating under either of the GPs applicable to LTFs for which 

continuous coverage of residues over 1.5 acres are being reported is considered for a Category 5 listing 

if one of the following conditions is met: (1) the permittee failed to submit a remediation plan, or (2) a 

remediation plan has been submitted, but the permittee is failing to implement or is not meeting 

milestones set forth in the approved remediation plan.

A waterbody associated with an LTF for which no currently permitted or active discharge to the water is 

occurring, but for which the last known dive survey reported more than 1.5 acres of continuous residues 

coverage on the marine seafloor, is placed on the Category5 list.

Removal of Waterbodies Determined to be Impaired from Residues from 

the Category 5 List 

The following protocols are applied to all waterbodies associated with a permitted facility and Category 

5 listing for residues, regardless of whether an active discharge is occurring on site.

In addition to consideration of the continuous residues coverage standard of 1.5 acres, DEC 

may consider biological assessment information, such as sediment profile imaging, in a 

determination to remove a water on the Category 5 list for residues.

For waterbodies placed on the Category 5 list after 1998 and determined to be impaired for 

residues based on the results of two or more dive surveys:

o DEC requires two consecutive dive surveys documenting that continuous residues 

coverage is no more than 1.5 acres before the waterbody is eligible for removal from the 

Category 5 list and for placement in Category 1 or 2.

For waterbodies placed on the Category 5 list in 1998 or earlier (based on 1.0 acre) and 

determined to be impaired for residues based on the results of one dive survey or best 

professional judgment:

o DEC requires one dive survey documenting that continuous residues coverage is no more 

than 1.0 acre before the waterbody is eligible for removal from the Category 5 list and 

placement in Category 1 or 2.
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Guidance for Determining Water Quality Impairments from 

Turbidity

This listing and assessment methodology for the turbidity pollutant is not a change to the turbidity 

criterion within Alaska WQS; however, it does provide direction for implementing the criterion when 

making water quality attainment or impairment determinations. 

Parameter-Specific Criteria

The methodology used by Alaska to evaluate waterbodies for the turbidity criterion specified in 18 AAC 

70.020(b)(12) and (24) is described below. 

Identification of Natural Conditions

When considering data in an impairment decision, the natural background condition, or reference 

condition, must be established. This first step is essential because the term ―above natural conditions‖ is 

key to the criteria specified for five of the seven water uses protected from turbidity. Turbidity data 

collected without an established natural condition should not be considered in any impairment 

determination. Many of Alaska’s waters have naturally occurring turbid flows, especially glacially fed

or tidally influenced waters, and care must be taken to effectively establish a natural condition for 

reference.

Alaska recognizes that variability in turbidity—among sites and over time—complicates the task of 

determining a natural or background level for any specified level of discharge.

To collect water samples, a concurrent or an ―upstream, downstream‖ approach is preferred. This 

approach entails sampling to establish natural conditions. Measurements taken upstream (control/natural 

conditions) and downstream (treated/impacted) of a particular pollutant source are compared. It is 

assumed that any increase in turbidity is due to the source or activity. Because upstream sampling

establishes the natural conditions, readings should be taken upstream of any suspected exceedances of 

the criteria and of any man-induced point or nonpoint sources of turbidity. 

When it may not be feasible to establish an upstream reference condition, a ―paired watershed‖ approach 

may be used. In this approach, a nearby water with similar hydrology, morphology, aspect, and other 

characteristics is identified for use in establishing the natural condition. The upstream, downstream 

approach is the preferred method, and data using this method may be weighted greater than data 

gathered through a paired watershed approach. 

Samples taken to establish reference conditions must collected at approximately the same time of year 

and during the same flows, as when samples are collected for suspected exceedances. 

Because turbidity can be influenced by natural phenomena, such as storm events, sampling during or 

immediately after high-flow or storm events should be avoided. Low-flow, dry-period sampling also 

should be avoided. Any turbidity data taken during such events should be discounted. Such data would 

not be considered less reliable if exceedances and impairment are suspected to be persistently occurring 

at low-flow or high-flow storm events and to be a result of man-induced activities. For these instances, 

the preferred approach is to gather data at a wide range of flow events. 
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Visual Turbidity Observations

Although visual observations of elevated turbidity observations may often be noted and signal criteria 

exceedances, Alaska does not make impairment determinations, and the associated Section 303(d) 

listings, based solely on visual turbidity observations. Visual observations often lead to identification of

suspected criteria exceedances. To confirm exceedances, the results of in-water nephelometric turbidity 

unit (NTU) sampling are compared to an established reference condition. 

Minimum Data Requirements and Analysis

Current data (less that 5 years old) are generally used for evaluation of turbidity, although some 

documentation or data more than 5 years old may be relevant. Older data are generally given less 

significance when reviewing information in an impairment determination.

Collection of 20 or more samples during at least three sampling events, with each sampling event 

separated by at least 1 week, is required to establish persistent exceedances of the turbidity criterion. 

Larger sample sets are desirable.

Sample locations should be reasonably distributed to avoid bias in any one sampling event. Sampling is 

generally obtained for at least two seasons. For example, 20 samples could be collected during the first 

and third weeks of May and the first week of June to make a determination.

If more than 10% of the samples exceed the turbidity criteria, the waterbody is considered for 

assignment to Category 5. Outliers, or results that are numerically distant from other data, are fully 

scrutinized, and in certain instances, such as in a clear storm event situation, they may be discounted. 

Outliers are viewed in ―totality‖ of the entire data set. An impairment determination is not based on 

outliers alone.

The preferred method for establishing turbidity impairment is to employ the use of continuous sampling 

data loggers, which are capable of recording large data sets. In these instances, statistical analysis may 

be required.

Before a final decision to add a waterbody impaired by turbidity to the Section 303(d) list, Alaska 

reviews the data for the basic concepts employed in any listing, including persistence, duration, and 

magnitude. Tools such as enforcement and permit limitations should be evaluated for the ability to

effectively reduce the exceedances.

Removal of a Water from the Section 303(d) List for Turbidity

The current listing methodology used by Alaska dictates that for removal of a water from the Section 

303(d) list, both the level of data to support the removal determination and the burden of proof are no 

greater than those used in the initial Section 303(d) listing determination. For a water that was placed on 

the Section 303(d) list (in 2008 or earlier) for turbidity impairment based on visual turbidity 

observations and best professional judgment, a determination to remove the water from the Section 

303(d) list may be based on visual turbidity observations and best professional judgment alone.
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Guidance for Determining Water Quality Attainment or Impairment

from Pathogens

Test methods for pathogens are specified in 18 AAC 70. The fecal coliform (FC) bacteria and 

enterococci enumeration must be determined by the membrane filter technique or most probable number 

procedure, according to the approved editions of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and 

Wastewater, adopted by reference in 18 AAC 70.020(c), or in accordance with other standards approved 

by DEC and EPA.

Section 303(d) listing determinations must be based on a laboratory analysis with an adequate Quality 

Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) for any FC or enterococci samples. For non-detect samples, the 

laboratory minimum detection limits are used to determine the value for a geometric mean calculation. 

It should be established that the FC bacteria levels are from human activies (such as septic systems, 

domestic animal waste) prior to any consideration of Section 303(d) listing as impaired. A waterbody is

not Section 303(d) listed as impaired if it can be established that the exceedance is due to natural 

conditions (such as wildlife). A determination about natural conditions requires well-reasoned best 

professional judgment combined with information or data to validate the condition. A decision to not list 

a waterbody because exceedances are from natural conditions requires, at a minimum, identification of a 

natural source that is likely responsible for producing the exceedances and information to support the 

absence of human impacts or no human impacts that exceed the allowable limits. Wilderness areas or 

other areas with no significant human impact are assumed to represent natural conditions.

Guidance for Determining Water Quality Impairments from 

Pathogens for Fresh Water Uses

The numeric criteria for six fresh water uses specified in Alaska WQS for FC bacteria (18 AAC 70.020)

all have an ―in a 30-day period‖ geometric mean provision and a ―not more than 10% of the samples 

may exceed‖ provision. Both provisions in the criteria must be met to attain the FC bacteria standard. 

(No criterion is specified for the ―Growth and Propagation of Fish, Shellfish, Other Aquatic Life, and 

Wildlife‖ fresh water use.)

Minimum Number of Samples 

For either the 30-day ―geometric mean‖ or the ―10% of samples‖ provisions of the criteria, a minimum 

of 5 samples is required for determining attainment or impairment however 10 samples are preferred. 

Data sets for 30 days with fewer than 10 samples are less desirable for the purposes of making a 

determination of WQS attainment.

Assessment and Sampling Period

At least two 30-day sampling periods during a 2-year period is desired to make attainment or 

impairment decisions. 10 samples in each 30-day sampling period are considered collectively to be an 

adequate assessment and sampling period. In each 30-day sampling period, the grouping or overlapping 

of samples should be avoided, and sampling preferably should be spread over the 30-day period. Data
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I. Supplemental Listing Methodology

139

sets that do not have two distinct 30-day sampling periods within a 2-year period are considered 

insufficient for listing and delisting purposes.

Two or more samples may be taken on the same day but should not be taken at the same sampling point. 

A period of sampling may be established for an impairment when exceedances are dependent on 

seasonal temperature conditions, heavy water use periods, or both.

Sampling during a range of stream flows, if applicable, is a better representation of all conditions and 

can identify seasonal conditions that are problematic for FC, such as ice break-up in the spring. 

Sampling during peak flow events, such as spring break-up or large rain events, is not desirable because 

it may not represent a persistent human-caused impact. If it is deemed necessary to sample during peak 

flow events or spring break-up, the sample data set must contain samples collected during a range of 

stream flow conditions and results should be compared to other flows for comparison.

Approach for Determining Attainment or Impairment Caused by Fecal 

Coliform Bacteria for Fresh Water Uses

The waterbody is considered impaired (e.g., persistent exceedances) when at least two 30-day sampling 

periods demonstrate an exceedance of either provision of the criterion over a two year period. Samples 

collected in two or more 30-day sampling periods are not combined; they are examined separately for

comparison with the standard.

The recommended approach is that exceedances found in only one 30-day sampling be followed with an 

additional 30-day sampling period during the same season of the next year to validate the persistence of 

the water quality impairment over a two year period.

Guidance for Determining Water Quality Attainment or Impairment 

from Pathogens for Marine Water Uses

FC bacteria criteria are specified for six of the seven marine water uses. The numeric criteria for five 

uses specified in 18 AAC 70.020(b) for FC bacteria all have provisions for ―in a 30-day period‖ and a 

―not more than 10% of the samples may exceed.‖ Both provisions must be met to attain the FC bacteria 

standard. (No criterion is specified for the marine water use for ―Growth and Propagation of Fish, 

Shellfish, Other Aquatic Life, and Wildlife‖ marine water use.)

An FC bacteria criterion specified for the ―Harvesting for Consumption Raw Mollusks or Other Aquatic 

Life‖ marine water use is different from the other five marine water uses. In addition, EPA has 

established additional criteria for enterococci for Alaska for the primary contact recreation use in marine 

waters. These criteria are discussed below. 

Minimum Number of Samples 

For either the 30-day ―geometric mean‖ or the ―10% of samples‖ provisions of the criteria, a minimum 

of 5 samples is required for determining attainment or impairment however 10 samples are preferred in a 

recommended 30-day period. Data sets for 30 days with fewer than 10 samples are less desirable for the 

purposes of making a determination of WQS attainment or impairment.
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Assessment and Sampling Period

At least two 30-day sampling periods during a 2-year period is desired. As noted earlier, 10 samples in 

each 30-day sampling period are considered collectively to be an adequate assessment and sampling 

period. In each 30-day sampling period, the grouping or overlapping of samples should be avoided, and 

sampling preferably should be spread over the 30-day period. Data sets that do not have two distinct 30-

day sampling periods within a 2-year period are considered insufficient for listing and delisting 

purposes.

Two or more samples may be taken on the same day but should not be taken at the same sampling point. 

A period of sampling may be established for an impairment when exceedances are dependent on 

seasonal temperature conditions, heavy water use periods, or both.

Approach for Determining Attainment or Impairment Caused by

Fecal Coliform Bacteria for Marine Water Uses

The waterbody is considered impaired (e.g., persistent exceedances) when at least two 30-day sampling 

periods demonstrate an exceedance of either provision of the standard over a two year period. Samples 

collected in two or more 30-day sampling periods are not combined; they are examined separately for 

comparison with the standard. 

Criterion for the “Harvesting for Consumption of Raw Mollusks or 

Other Aquatic Life” Marine Water Use

The Alaska water quality standard criterion for the ―Harvesting for Consumption Raw Mollusks or 

Other Aquatic Life‖ marine water use is worded as follows:

2

Based on a 5-tube decimal dilution test, the fecal coliform median MPN may not exceed 14 

FC/100 ml, and not more than 10% of the samples may exceed a fecal coliform median MPN of 

43 FC/100 ml. Or based on a 12-tube single dilution test, the fecal coliform median MPN may 

not exceed 14 FC/100ml, and not more than 10% of the samples may exceed a fecal coliform 

median MPN of 28 FC/100 ml.

Minimum Number of Samples

A minimum of 15 samples should be collected for assessing attainment of the ―Harvesting for 

Consumption Raw Mollusks or Other Aquatic Life‖ use in remote areas where there is no actual or

potential pollution. The collection of the water samples should generally be planned or scheduled to 

capture the rainy months and the dry months, as well as high- and low-tide variables. Ideally the samples 

capture various hydrological and meteorological conditions that might have an impact on the water 

quality. In addition to the water sampling, a shoreline survey is required to determine potential pollution 

sources on shore. A typical water classification survey for the classification of commercial shellfish 

growing and harvest areas takes at least 12 months. A minimum of 30 samples should be collected under 

 

2 The abbreviations in the regulatory language are defined as follows: MPN, most probably number; FC, fecal coliform; and 

ml, milliliters.
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various environmental conditions in growing areas where pollution sources (human habitation or known 

pollution potential) may have an impact on the water quality.

Approach for Determining Impairment

A waterbody is considered to not be attaining the FC bacteria standard when either provision of the 

standard is exceeded for the ―Harvesting for Consumption Raw Mollusks or Other Aquatic Life‖ marine 

water use.

Criteria for Marine Water Use for Coastal Recreation Areas 

(Primary Contact)

The federal Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act of 2000 specifies the 

following water quality criteria for coastal recreation (primary contact) in marine waters:

Geometric mean of 35 enterococci per 100 ml shall not be exceeded.

Or

A single sample maximum (per 100 ml) of 158 enterococci shall not be exceeded.

This standard was promulgated by EPA for Alaska in 2004 and published in the Federal Register in 69 

FR 67217-67243.

Minimum Number of Samples Required for Attainment or Impairment for 

Coastal Recreation Areas

At least two 30-day sampling periods during a 2-year period, with a minimum of five samples in each

30-day sampling period, are necessary to provide an adequate assessment and sampling period for 

coastal recreation (primary contact) areas in marine waters. In the 30-day period, samples should not be 

grouped; instead, they should be reasonably spread over the 30-day sampling period. However, two 

samples in one day are acceptable but should not be taken at the same sampling point. When 

exceedances are dependent on seasonal temperature conditions, heavy water use periods, or both, a 

seasonal period may be established for the impairment. 

Laboratory Methodology for Enterococci

The standard method (EPA Method 1600) for enterococci analysis must utilize the mEl medium or other 

method approved by EPA for CWA purposes.

Approach for Determining Impairment for the Marine Water Coastal Recreation (Primary 

Contact) Use Areas

The waterbody is considered impaired (e.g., persistent exceedances) when at least two 30-day sampling 

periods demonstrate an exceedance of either provision of the criterion. Samples collected in two or more 

30-day sampling periods are not combined; instead, they are examined separately for comparison with 

the standard.
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The recommended approach is that exceedances found in only one 30-day sampling be followed with an 

additional 30-day sampling period during the same season of the next year to validate the persistence of 

the water quality impairment over a two year period.