Elements of Pennsylvania s Monitoring and Assessment Program

Elements of Pennsylvania s Monitoring and Assessment Program Division of Water Quality Standards Bureau of Water Standards & Facility Regulation Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Pennsylvania s Monitoring and Assessment Program Pennsylvania needs comprehensive water quality monitoring and assessment information on environmental conditions and changes over time to help set levels of protection in water quality standards and to identify problem areas that are emerging or that need additional regulatory and non-regulatory actions to support water quality management decisions such as TMDLs, NPDES permits, enforcement, and nonpoint source management. This information also informs EPA and State decision makers, the public, and other stakeholders of the progress that Pennsylvania is making in protecting human health and the environment. Without this information, it is difficult for the State to set priorities, evaluate the success of programs and activities, and report on accomplishments in a credible and informed way. These stated monitoring needs provide the impetus and rationale behind the development of Pennsylvania s monitoring strategy document. i

Contents I. Introduction A. Background... 1 B. Purpose... 1 II. Elements of a State Monitoring Program A. Monitoring Program Strategy... 3 B. Monitoring Objectives... 11 C. Monitoring Design... 14 D. Core Water Quality Indicators... 21 E. Quality Assurance... 24 F. Data Management... 26 G. Data Analysis/Assessment... 28 H. Reporting... 32 I. Programmatic Evaluation... 34 J. General Support and Infrastructure Planning... 37 III. References... ii

I. Introduction A. Background Pennsylvania s water quality monitoring program has strong, long-term elements in place that assess and monitor the surface water quality of its rivers, streams, and lakes. These established, long-standing monitoring efforts were primarily oriented toward identifying water quality problems and taking action to abate pollution. Early monitoring emphasis targeted point source (PS) discharges and impacts associated with urbanized areas. While programs existed to monitor and address other water resources (groundwater, wetlands, and previously unassessed waters) and water quality problems (nonpoint and lesser known PS impacts), they received less emphasis until recently. As the need for environmental monitoring increased, various water quality programs were implemented and enhanced. In order to document and describe these programs, Section 303(e)(l) of the federal Clean Water Act, required states to have and maintain a Continuing Planning Process (CPP) describing processes used to manage their water quality programs. Pennsylvania, through the Department of Environmental Protection ( Department ; formerly Department of Environmental Resources), developed and revised, as needed, a CPP document entitled: Continuing Planning Process For Water Quality Management (1999 Update). Further, in an effort to better address federal Clean Water Act objectives to monitor and report on the condition of Pennsylvania waters and water quality programs, EPA has developed guidance, entitled: Elements of a State Water Monitoring and Management Program - March 2003 (Elements), that describes critical elements for state water quality monitoring programs. States are required to develop an Elements document describing their water quality monitoring programs. B. Purpose The CPP and Elements documents fulfill two separate functions. The CPP document lists and describes water quality monitoring activities, processes, and legislative authority whereas the Elements document describes data collection goals, data interpretation, decision-making process, and program needs to manage those monitoring activities presented in the CPP document. The purpose of this Elements document is to define the components and framework of Pennsylvania s water monitoring program, so that programmatic and resource needs can be more readily identified. The ten elements developed in this monitoring document describe existing monitoring tools, related programs and identify monitoring resources needed to fulfill CWA requirements. These ten elements are: Monitoring Program Strategy Monitoring Objectives Monitoring Design Core and Supplemental Water Quality Indicators 1

Quality Assurance Data Management Data Analysis/Assessment Reporting Programmatic Evaluation General Support and Infrastructure Planning EPA has established a ten-year window for implementation of these monitoring program elements. It is anticipated that full implementation of these elements in Pennsylvania will require additional resources. Due to the dynamic nature of monitoring, emerging issues, and future water quality needs, this Elements monitoring and assessment document will be reviewed and updated every three to five years or earlier as needed. Concurrently, the Department will periodically re-evaluate, adjust, and redirect monitoring resources in order to meet its water quality assessment responsibilities. 2

II. Elements of a State Monitoring Program A. Monitoring Program Strategy Provisions of the federal Clean Water Act 106 require States to monitor, compile, and analyze data on the quality of their navigable waters. Such activities provide the foundation of a state s water quality management program. In order to meet these requirements, States must define a clear and comprehensive water quality monitoring strategy that establishes and maintains a mechanism to implement appropriate management programs, methods, and procedures necessary to accomplish those Clean Water Act objectives as they relate to all types of state waters. These state waters include: Streams, Lakes and Reservoirs, Groundwater, Wetlands, Estuarine and Coastal Waters. This water quality monitoring and assessment strategy provides an operational foundation for the Department of Environmental Protection (the Department or DEP ) to plan for the collection, analysis, use, and reporting of water quality data for the above listed waters in the context of their protected uses. The protected use categories targeted by this Strategy are aquatic life, water supply, recreation, fish consumption, and Special Protection. The information apprises decision-makers and the general public of the progress that Pennsylvania is making in protecting the health of its citizens and the environment. A significant aspect of the Department s water quality monitoring and assessment strategy is its reliance on multiple sources for water quality monitoring data. These include internal DEP programs, other government agencies, and nongovernment sources including citizen volunteer monitoring groups. Descriptions of active monitoring efforts and initiatives under development by the Department are described below. Identified monitoring resources needs are briefly presented for some program activities and will be summarized more thoroughly in Chapter J. General Support & Infrastructure Planning. DEPARTMENTAL WATER QUALITY MONITORING PROGRAMS Streams, Lakes, and Reservoirs As part of its Water Monitoring and Assessment Program, the Department currently gathers comprehensive water quality monitoring and assessment information to support water quality management actions such as assessment of use attainment, TMDL development, NPDES permitting, administration of compliance actions, definition of reference condition, and nonpoint source management related to streams and lakes. Specifically, these activities, with a brief description, are: 3

1) Surface Water Quality Monitoring Network (WQN) - The WQN is a long-term, fixed station network of approximately 160 monitoring stations on rivers, streams and lakes throughout the state designed to monitor water quality conditions on a broad scale. Stations are located primarily in major streams (for trend analyses), selected reference waters (minimally disturbed streams) for reference condition development, selected lakes (lakes with public access; rotating on a 5 year monitoring cycle), and at selected locations in the Chesapeake Bay drainage to monitor nutrient and sediment loading. Currently, the Department has a Joint Funding Agreement with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) to conduct the field data collection for most of the WQN stream and lake monitoring stations. 2) Statewide Surface Waters Assessment Program (SSWAP) Prior to initiating SSWAP in 1997, most of Pennsylvania s 83,000 stream miles had never been assessed. Therefore, the SSWAP strategy was formulated to locate and identify good quality waters, point and nonpoint sources of pollution, and to determine the extent of water quality impairments. As of September 2004, approximately 74,000 stream miles (89% of the total; Figure 1) represented by 13,900 stations have been assessed. Assessment data collected from September 2004 through September 2005 is being compiled and reviewed for quality assurance purposes and will be summarized in a future monitoring strategy update. 3) Aquatic Life Special Water Quality Protection Surveys - The purpose of Special Protection surveys is to identify and protect, at existing quality, the state s most significant aquatic resources. Currently there are approximately 25,300 miles of streams listed with Special Protection (High Quality and Exceptional Value) designated uses (Figure 2). 4

4) Cause/Effect Compliance Surveys Cause/Effect Surveys are conducted primarily to monitor the effectiveness of the NPDES permitting program. They are also used to document the effects of nonpoint sources or non-permitted discharges. 5) Use Attainability Studies - These studies are carried out to ensure that appropriate aquatic life uses are identified and protected. 6) Lake Surveys Lake monitoring efforts are conducted to provide lake status information that is required by Section 314 of the Federal Clean Water Act; specifically to define the trophic condition of all publicly owned freshwater lakes and to control pollution sources and restore lake quality for maximum public use benefit. Groundwater Pennsylvania has two groundwater resource protection programs the Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP) program and the Wellhead Protection (WHP) program. These programs proactively apply proper management techniques and various preventive measures to protect ground-water supplies. Pennsylvania has a ground water monitoring program that is implemented on a limited statewide scale. In order to implement a more functional monitoring network on a statewide basis, the Department has been actively involved with the USGS in formulating a statewide, probabilistic monitoring design. 5

Wetlands The Department has implemented a Wetlands Net Gain Strategy to ensure and support wetland restoration. The Department evaluates the effectiveness of this strategy annually to measure its success in meeting wetland restoration goals and objectives. The Cooperative Wetlands Center (CWC) at Pennsylvania State University has developed a wetlands assessment protocol, which defines a wetlands condition assessment process. The Department is planning to implement a pilot study applying the CWC wetlands assessment protocol. This pilot study will support implementation, refinement, and validation of the CWC wetlands assessment protocol. It will eventually be used to develop a baseline inventory of wetland conditions across Pennsylvania with reassessments on a recurring cycle. Estuarine and Coastal Waters Pennsylvania s coastal waters are represented by a small portion of Lake Erie shoreline (63 miles) and the Delaware Estuary (57 shoreline miles and 17 square miles). The Department has a cooperative agreement with the Erie County Department of Health to conduct water quality monitoring activities in Erie County waters. It also has an active Coastal Zone Management program that addresses land and water use issues and development activities in the coastal areas of Erie County. Although Pennsylvania has very limited estuarine waters within its jurisdiction, it is a partner in the Delaware Estuary Program (DELEP). The Department has periodically cooperated in specific monitoring projects involving DELEP, such as bacteriological surveys and fish tissue advisories. Currently, the Department is contracted by DRBC to collect samples on several tidal creeks (Chester, Ridley, Crum, Darby, Pennypack, Poquessing, Neshaminy, Frankford) and the non-tidal Schuylkill (Falls Bridge and Chestnut Street) once a month during July, August and September. Measured parameters include nutrients, metals, organics, and bacteria. The Department has recently created and filled a Great Lakes biologist position whose duties are primarily to conduct Pennsylvania s water quality monitoring and investigative surveys in Lake Erie and related drainage area. COOPERATIVE AGENCY MONITORING EFFORTS Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission The Department has contracted the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC) to assist in its SSWAP program since 1998. To date, PFBC has assessed approximately 1300 stations representing over 7000 stream miles. Resulting assessment results are provided to the Department on an annual basis to be incorporated into the Integrated Report (305(b) and 303(d)) submitted to EPA. 6

The PFBC also participates with DEP in its annual fish tissue surveys and consumption advisory actions. Susquehanna River Basin Commission The Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) also assists the Department in its SSWAP program. Data is transmitted to DEP on a annual basis to be incorporated in its 305(b) and 303(d) listing reports and interim updates. The SRBC also collects data in support of TMDL development for 303(d)-listed streams impaired by abandoned mine drainage. The SRBC is also participating with the Department by collecting nutrient and sediment loading data from selected WQN stations for the Chesapeake Bay Program s Nontidal Tributaries Water-Quality Monitoring Network. Future cooperative efforts with SRBC include fish IBI metrics development and verification for small warm water streams and large rivers. Delaware River Basin Commission The DRBC will be providing contracted field data collection from Delaware basin streams for the verification phase of the Department s benthic IBI metrics project. Once completed, the metrics derived form this project will be used in the Department s rapid bioassessment protocols for SSWAP and Antidegradation assessments. This verification project is supported by EPA REMAP funding. Future cooperative efforts with DRBC include fish IBI metrics development and verification for small warm water streams and large rivers. Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission (ORSANC0) ORSANCO monitors fish tissue contaminants in the main stem of the Ohio River as part of the Department s Fish Tissue Sampling & Fish Advisories Program. Sampling is conducted by both electrofishing in the river and by sampling fish from the locks that are part of the navigation system. DEP and PFBC staff usually assists ORSANCO with fish collection. United States Environmental Protection Agency The US Environmental Protection Agency Region III, primarily through its field biology staff, periodically assists the Department with various survey projects. The most recent efforts were with surveys related to the Department s lake assessment methodology development activities. In FY2004, EPA, along with one of its contractors, will be assisting with field data collection for the Department s invertebrate metrics development/verification project as part of the same REMAP grant mentioned in the DRBC Section above. A new cooperative DEP/EPA work project: Ambient Water Quality Monitoring Plan for Bacteria Decision Consequence Model in Southwestern Pennsylvania (3 Rivers Project) has recently been proposed and approved. 7

Future cooperative efforts with EPA have been proposed for fish IBI metrics development and verification for small warm water streams and large rivers. However, these projects are contingent on grant awards to support requisite work effort. Chesapeake Bay Program The Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP), with the cooperation of DEP and other partner organizations (SRBC and USGS), has initiated the Nontidal Tributaries Water-Quality Monitoring Network. Several of this network s monitoring stations coincide with some of the Department s fixed stations in the previously discussed Surface Water Quality Monitoring Network (WQN). Data from this monitoring project will help document Pennsylvania s efforts to reduce nutrient and sediment loading to the Chesapeake Bay. A key component of CBP s Nontidal Tributaries WQN is that it targets significant storm events to gather nutrient and sediment loading data. United States Geological Survey As previously stated, through a joint funding agreement, the USGS performs most of the field data collection and biological sampling responsibilities for the Department s Surface Water Quality Monitoring Network (WQN). The collected water quality and flow data is compiled and entered into EPA s STORET database system. The biological data are entered in the Department s water quality database. Erie County Department of Health The Department has a cooperative agreement with the Erie County Department of Health to conduct water quality monitoring activities in Erie County waters, such as cause/effect surveys and NPDES discharge monitoring. The Erie County Department of Health also collects water quality data from lake WQN stations in Lake Erie and participates in the Department s Fish Tissue Sampling & Fish Advisories Program described below in the Human Health protected use section. CITIZEN VOLUNTEER MONITORING DEP has an ongoing citizen volunteer monitoring program (CVM) that provides support and technical assistance to volunteer monitoring efforts. More than 180 groups that include 11,000 individuals are involved statewide in monitoring activities. The CVM program provides workshops, training, and quality assurance sessions for volunteer monitors who wish to have their data used by DEP in the Integrated Report process. The CVM program is working with various groups to: 1) collect bacteriological data for use in determining recreational use attainment in streams and 2) conduct lake monitoring efforts that also provide data used in the Integrated Report. 8

MONITORING STRATEGY GOALS Goals: Aquatic Life Use Use a combined probabilistic and targeted monitoring design to assess surface waters with a revised field protocol (ICE) applied through a rotating basin approach to continuously evaluate use attainment status statewide Coordinate with DEP regional watershed managers, the CVMP, and other point and nonpoint program staff to select targeted sites Apply probabilistic design to waters known to be attaining uses Staff this effort to complete statewide cycles in 5 years o Resource Needs 1 : Additional staff Milestone Dates Begin implementation: In progress - 2 nd Quarter 2005 Statewide: October 2006 Staffing complement: 2 nd Quarter 2007 Goals: Water Supply Use Continue to work with water suppliers to obtain voluntary raw water data Coordinate with Drinking Water Program to use the results of mandatory E. coli/cryptosporidium sampling beginning in 2006 for raw water assessment purposes o Evaluate Water Quality standards for compatibility with this effort o Resource Needs 1 : to be identified Milestone Dates Complete Triennial Water Quality Standards Review: 3rd Quarter 2008 Goals: Recreational Use Continue to work with Department of Health and DCNR-State Parks to assess public bathing beaches Evaluate Water Quality standards for compatibility with effective recreational use assessments Identify a model to address fate and transport of bacteria in flowing waters o Develop a bacteriological monitoring plan to support the needs of the model o Validate the above model with data collected from waters subject to CSOs and other bacterial sources o Resource Needs 1 : funding support Grant A cooperative DEP/EPA work project: Ambient Water Quality Monitoring Plan for Bacteria Decision 1 Resource needs will be presented Chapter J General Support and Infrastructure Planning in more detail 9

Consequence Model in Southwestern Pennsylvania (3 Rivers Project) was recently approved and a contract has been awarded to begin this project. Planning activities are underway and a work plan describing the scope of work is being drafted. Milestone Dates Complete Triennial Water Quality Standards Review: 3rd Quarter 2008 Bacteriological Modeling: To be determined after completion of the 3 Rivers Project work plan, which is targeted for the 1st Quarter of 2006 Goals: Fish Consumption Use Expand annual fish tissue sampling from 65 to 100 samples/year in order to increase waters assessed for fish consumption use and consumption advisories o Resource Needs 1 : Increased laboratory capacity Additional staff Milestone Dates (Contingent on available funding and analytical laboratory capacity) Begin Additional Sampling: In progress Approximately 10 more fish tissue samples than normal were collected in 2005 Full Sampling Complement: 4 th Quarter 2007 Goals: Special Protection Use Increase annual number of Special Protection use assessment surveys to include re-evaluation of waters originally designated without a direct measure of the aquatic resource (former Conservation Area designations) o Resource Needs 1 : Additional staff Milestone Dates (Contingent on additional staff) Complete Conservation Area evaluations: 2010 10

B. Monitoring Objectives Pennsylvania s Water Monitoring and Assessment Program, administered and coordinated by the DEP Bureau of Water Supply & Wastewater Management, is designed to satisfy the following information needs and support the objectives listed below: Describe general water quality conditions of all state waters; Identify long-term trends in water quality; Determine the suitability of Commonwealth waters for aquatic life, water supply, recreation and fish consumption, and special protection; Support water quality standards development; Support National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting and compliance activities; Identify actual or potential problem areas; Evaluate the success of water quality management programs; Define reference or best attainable conditions for Pennsylvania waters. Develop or enhance existing programs, as needed, to monitor wetlands, groundwater, and estuaries/coastal waters; To accomplish these objectives, monitoring programs in the Bureaus of Water Supply & Wastewater Management and Watershed Management are integrated with monitoring and assessment programs and activities within and outside the Department. Monitoring program and related activities performed to meet the objectives listed above are briefly described below: 1. Describe General Water Quality Conditions of Pennsylvania Waters. The Department s Surface Water Quality Monitoring Network (WQN) and Statewide Surface Waters Assessment Program (SSWAP) are the main monitoring activities that provide data to characterize general water quality conditions of streams, rivers, and lakes. 2. Identify Long-Term Trends In Water Quality. The Department periodically examines water quality data obtained from its fixed station WQN to assess trends. 3. Determine the Suitability of Commonwealth Waters for Aquatic Life, Water Supply, Recreation and Fish Consumption, and Special Protection. The Department conducts several, well established water quality monitoring activities to evaluate the suitability of Pennsylvania s surface waters for these purposes. These activities are listed below and discussed in greater detail in Chapter C (Monitoring Design). Aquatic Life and Special Protection - Assessments of aquatic life uses are completed using SSWAP biological screening and detailed follow-up assessments, Special Protection surveys, and Lake assessments. 11

Water Supply - The Department has completed source water assessments and periodically conducts sanitary surveys of community water supplies. Recreation and Fish Consumption Bacteriological monitoring activities and a cooperative, interagency Fish Tissue Sampling and Fish Advisories Program are used to evaluate recreational and fish consumption uses. 4. Support Water Quality Standards Development. Water quality standards development (and revision) activities related to aquatic life use protection are based primarily on the Special Protection survey protocol. 5. Support National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permitting and Compliance Activities. Point source (PS) compliance surveys provide assessments and water quality data needed for discharge permitting and compliance activities. WQN Reference station data supports permitting activities in waters requiring non-degrading discharges. 6. Identify Actual or Potential Problem Areas. Several Department survey protocols are designed to detect water quality impairments. These include the SSWAP, bacteriological monitoring, use attainability, cause/effect, stream enrichment analysis, and phosphorus discharge to lakes protocols. 7. Evaluate The Success of Water Quality Management Programs. Once a waterbody is identified as not meeting water quality standards, the Department has the responsibility to take corrective measures and evaluate their success in improving water quality conditions. This is done by taking compliance actions or developing and implementing total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) to correct pollution problems. Follow-up monitoring using the detailed follow-up SSWAP protocol discussed in Sections B.1 above and in Chapter C (Monitoring Design Ambient Surface Waters) is then conducted to assess improvements. 8. Define Reference Or Best Attainable Conditions For Pennsylvania Waters. In order to properly evaluate waterbodies for appropriate aquatic life use attainment and designation, the Department needs to define reference or best attainable conditions of state waters for comparative purposes. For wadeable surface waters, this is done using the Special Protection survey protocol referenced above in Section B.3 (Aquatic Life and Special Protection). For wetlands, a wetlands assessment protocol has been developed and will be field tested (see Chapter C. Monitoring Design Ambient Surface Waters). 9. Develop Or Enhance Existing Programs, As Needed, To Monitor Wetlands, Groundwater, And Estuaries/Coastal Waters. Protocols and enhancements to existing wetlands and groundwater monitoring programs are currently under development. A Great Lakes Biologist position was recently created and filled to implement the Department s monitoring and assessment activities in the coastal waters of Lake Erie. 12

Goals 2 Expand and integrate existing Lake and Ground Water monitoring activities into monitoring efforts comparable to the traditional surface water quality monitoring described above Begin implementation: To be determined later - Requires more preliminary review for Long Range Planning Develop and integrate the wetlands monitoring program into an effort comparable to the traditional surface water quality monitoring described above Based on pilot monitoring project results, begin implementation: 3 rd Quarter 2007 Conduct surface water quality trend assessments on WQN or other datasets on a rotating basis. Implement trend assessment method: beginning 1st Quarter 2006 Evaluate existing estuarine and coastal water monitoring programs in order to integrate appropriate water quality data with current monitoring reports and tracking activities. Begin implementation: To be determined later - Requires more preliminary review for Long Range Planning Expand Aquatic Life Use assessment capability by developing additional multimetric indices for benthic and fish indicators Begin development: In progress Initiate a water supply use assessment program to monitor surface water sources on a limited scale. Expand assessments to a statewide level to eventually monitor all public water supply surface water sources on a rotating basis (contingent upon development of appropriate indicators by EPA) Pilot Project Implementation: 1 st Quarter 2006 Increase recreational use assessment efforts. o Implement pilot assessments on a limited scale and expand to a statewide level, similar to Aquatic Life assessments o Increase assessments through citizen volunteer monitoring efforts Pilot Project Implementation: In progress Increase CVMP efforts: In progress 2 Resource needs will be presented Chapter J General Support and Infrastructure Planning in more detail 13

C. Monitoring Design The Department administers a wide variety of programs to address water quality monitoring of Pennsylvania s water resources using targeted and long-term fixed station sampling designs. A probabilistic sampling design for application in a Statewide Surface Water Assessment Program (SSWAP) assessment verification project is currently under development. AMBIENT SURFACE WATERS Aquatic Life Use The main monitoring program for Aquatic Life Use assessments (Statewide Surface Water Assessment Program (SSWAP)) uses a targeted design. Data are collected from 20 large watershed areas that are divided further into smaller assessment units forming a total of 104 state water plan (SWP) assessment areas (Figure 3). Other Aquatic Life Uses assessment programs use targeted designs but on a much smaller stream or watershed scale. These include Antidegradation Surveys (to identify High Quality and Exceptional Value Waters), Specific Stream Habitat Assessments (Warmwater Fish IBI, Low Gradient, Limestone, Limestone-Influenced), Lakes, and Point Source (PS) Compliance surveys (Use Attainability, Cause/Effect, Toxics, Stream Enrichment Risk Analysis, and Phosphorus Discharges to Lakes). 14

A fixed-station monitoring design is used in the Surface Water Quality Monitoring Network (WQN) program. The WQN provides data to support water chemistry and biology trend analysis as well as fish tissue consumption assessments. The network consists of approximately 160 fixed stations distributed on streams and lakes throughout the state (Figure 4). Of these 160 stations, 26 are currently reference condition stations, 2 are lake stations, and 25 are concurrently used to monitor nutrient and sediment loading to the Chesapeake Bay. Recreational Use The Department uses a bacteriological monitoring protocol to evaluate recreational use attainment that measures fecal coliform densities as indicators of possible pathogen contamination that could interfere with water contact recreation such as swimming or water skiing. Recreational use attainment decisions are made using bacteriological data collected by government agencies (including the DEP, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the United States Geological Survey) and citizen/volunteer groups. Important recreational areas (e.g. beaches and other areas designated for public, waterbased recreation) and aquatic life use-impaired waterbodies with obvious potential 15

sources of bacteria (e.g., municipal point sources, combined sewer overflows, discharge compliance problems, and agricultural sources relating to manure application, livestock grazing, and animal feeding) are targeted for bacteriological sampling. Sample datasets used for recreational use assessments are collected during the swimming season (May 1 through September 30) and consist of five bacteriological samples collected on different days during a 30-day period, spanning a minimum of 14 days. The Department is planning to review bacteriological-based criteria that are applicable to recreational use protection. This planning process is described in greater detail in the Future Considerations discussion of the Water Supply Use section below. Fish Consumption Use As part of the river and stream water quality sampling described in the Aquatic Life Use section above, edible portions of fishes of recreational significance are sampled annually from approximately 35 lake and major stream stations. Fish tissue is analyzed for a variety of toxic substances and advisories are issued if any of these substances exceed the recommended levels established to protect human health. In addition to its own sampling, the Commonwealth cooperates in two other fish tissue monitoring programs. The Fish Tissue Sampling and Fish Advisories Program is an interagency, cooperative effort between the Pennsylvania Departments of Environmental Protection, Health (DOH), and Agriculture (DOA) and the PFBC. Target species consist of waterbody-specific, recreationally important species that are commonly taken by anglers for consumption. Fish tissue samples are generally collected during periods of low flow between August and October when reproduction is complete and a full summer of exposure to potential toxins has occurred. Pennsylvania participates in the Nearshore Element of the Great Lakes Fish Monitoring Program (GLFMP). Three composite samples are collected each year of fish ascending Lake Erie tributary streams to spawn. This sampling is a cooperative effort between DEP, PFBC, and Erie County Department of Health staff. Water Supply Use The Division of Drinking Water Management implements Pennsylvania's Safe Drinking Water Program with the primary interest to remove waterborne, disease-causing organisms and other health-related contaminants that are present in surface water sources. To protect consumers from Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and other waterborne, disease-causing organisms, the Department conducts filter plant performance evaluations at all filtered public drinking water systems that use surface water sources. In addition, the Department conducts public water supply surveys on a 1 to 3 year cycle (based on the number of people served by the water supplier) to determine the extent of water supply problems and needs. The Department also conducts emergency response activities at drinking water systems during events such as floods, droughts, and spills. Department staff assesses potable water supply use attainment by reviewing selfmonitoring reports, including raw (intake) water quality if available (raw water monitoring 16

efforts by the Department are described below). Raw water chemical (nitrate/nitrite) quality is compared over extended periods of time to appropriate criteria outlined in Pennsylvania's water quality standards to determine water supply use attainment status. Primary Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) are used as the principal screening tool for compliance decisions related to finished water quality. Source Water Assessment and Protection As required by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), States are required to submit plans to EPA that describe how groundwater sources used by public water systems will be protected from contamination. Pennsylvania has developed two groundwater resource protection programs the Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP) and the Wellhead Protection (WHP) programs. These programs are proactive efforts that apply proper management techniques and various preventive measures to protect ground-water supplies thereby ensuring public health and preventing the need for expensive treatment of wells to comply with drinking water standards. Raw Water Monitoring Water Supply use attainment evaluations are conducted through the review of water quality data received from public water suppliers using filtered surface water sources. In an effort to enhance water supply use assessments, a raw water monitoring pilot study was initiated in 2003 when the Department contacted approximately 120 suppliers (with >10,000 users) soliciting self-monitored raw water data for nitrate-plus-nitrite, chloride, color, fluoride, iron, manganese, phenolics, total dissolved solids, and sulfate). Based on the results of the 2003 pilot, nitrite plus nitrate concentration in the raw water is used as the principle screening tool for potable water supply use attainment decisions. Nitrite plus nitrate data collected over extended periods of time are compared to potable water supply criteria outlined in Pennsylvania s Water Quality Standards regulations to determine use attainment status. Further, this raw water monitoring pilot effort was expanded in 2004 to include all 350 filtered suppliers in Pennsylvania using surface water sources but data collection was narrowed to acute contaminants (nitrate plus nitrite) that represent public health risks. Currently, the public water suppliers are requested to submit monitoring results for total nitrates (collected every 3 months). Future Considerations The Department has initiated consideration of new water quality criteria to be consistent with current EPA recommendations. The Department's surface water quality and drinking water programs are working together to evaluate appropriate and effective alternatives for the protection of the potable water supply use for surface waters of the Commonwealth. Once formulated, the Department will present draft recommendations and regulatory options to the Water Resource Advisory Committee (WRAC) and Environmental Quality Board for regulation promulgation. However, it is believed that the ongoing coordination of the surface water and drinking water programs and their research will take considerably longer than this allotted time frame. Therefore, initial recommendations will likely focus solely on the protection of recreational uses, at this time. Any revisions and/or additions to water quality criteria for potable water supply 17

use protection will be contained in separate recommendations to be made at a later time. The Department is also preparing for the implementation of EPA s proposed Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2). This rule states that drinking water suppliers that draw from surface water sources must monitor Cryptosporidium, E. coli or both. Large surface water suppliers (10,000 + users) would have to monitor for Cryptosporidium and E. coli in their raw water source(s) each month for a total of 24 months. Smaller surface water suppliers (less than 10,000 users) will need to monitor bi-weekly for E. coli. They will only need to collect Cryptosporidium samples if E. coli concentrations exceed specified concentrations. The Department may adjust Water Supply use attainment evaluations after EPA finalizes the LT2 Rule, which is scheduled for publication in the Federal Register in mid- 2005. WETLANDS MONITORING The Department recognizes that protection and restoration of wetlands as well as mitigation of impacts to wetland uses are critical components to effective watershed management in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Wetlands Center (CWC) has developed a wetlands assessment protocol with the support of the EPA and the Department. The protocol, based on landscape position, surrounding land use, and wetland integrity scores as indicators of wetland quality, is intended for the water quality assessment of emergent, shrub, and forested wetlands. The CWC wetlands assessment protocol defines a process that uses one or more of three levels of effort depending on the objectives of the assessment, resource availability, and the degree of confidence required in the results. The three levels can be generally described as a landscape assessment using remote-sensing data, a rapid site assessment of wetland impacts or stressors, and a quantitative assessment of wetland ecological integrity and function. EPA Region III has awarded a grant (cooperative agreement) to the Department to develop a comprehensive wetland monitoring protocol and strategy as part of a fiveyear effort to develop a baseline inventory of wetland condition across the Commonwealth. Components of this grant include implementation of a pilot study applying the CWC wetlands assessment protocol. The pilot study will assess and report on the condition of wetlands in the Lower Susquehanna Sub-basin (State Water Plan Sub-basin 7), which includes the Susquehanna River and all its tributaries from the mouth of the Juniata River in Perry County to the Maryland state line. Ultimately, reassessments will be performed on a recurring cycle statewide. The cooperative agreement calls for the eventual development of recommended Designated Uses and Water Quality Standards (WQS) for wetlands-based on reference standard conditions and identified ecologically and culturally relevant thresholds. Additional program milestones, estimated costs, information on data collection Quality Management Plans (QMPs) and Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs), 18

expectations for reporting in Integrated Reports and expected use of stressors (as indicators) are also presented in the plan. The Department also has implemented a Wetlands Net Gain Strategy. The purpose of this strategy is to ensure the continued net addition of wetlands by providing the framework and resources for restoration of wetlands within the overall context of the Commonwealth s watershed management programs. The Department evaluates the effectiveness of this strategy annually to measure its success in meeting wetland restoration goals and objectives. GROUND WATER Ambient Ground Water Monitoring Pennsylvania s established ground water monitoring program has been implemented on a limited scale statewide since 1985. The fixed station and ambient ground water monitoring scheme is based on the 478 delineated ground water basins in the state. Each of the ground water basins was ranked based upon activities occurring in the basin and expected growth pressure. The ground water quality monitoring program is described a document titled Pennsylvania's Ground Water Quality Monitoring Network on the DEP web site (www.dep.state.pa.us) (under revision). About 10% of the ground water basins have had monitoring schemes designed and sampling conducted. Most monitoring activities have been concentrated in selected basins in the southeastern portions of the state. Almost all of the ground water basins ranked in the top 30 priority basins have been monitored. While monitoring sample collection had been quite active in during the program s inception, recent sampling efforts have been limited by personnel shortages and reassignments. A summary of the ground water quality monitoring data collected from 1985 to 1997 was published by the Department in 1998 and is on the DEP web site (www.dep.state.pa.us). To better support a statewide watershed approach to environmental programs, the Department has been actively involved with the USGS in formulating a stratified sampling design, which subdivides the state into geolithologic units of relative homogeneous character. A statistically significant number of sampling points is identified and randomly selected to represent the geolithologic units. A randomselection program is used to subdivide each geolithologic unit and ensure a statistically valid spatial distribution. A well selection criterion is used to identify appropriate well sampling locations and ensure the sample population is random. Sampling of these geologic rock types will be adapted to a probabilistic monitoring design, which may be ready to implement in state FY06. ESTUARINE AND COASTAL WATERS Historically, DEP oversight of estuarine and coastal waters has been limited to programs administered under the Coastal Zone Management Program (CZMP) by its Water Planning Office. The CZMP mission is to protect and enhance fragile natural resources by reducing conflicts between competing land and water uses while representing a comprehensive approach to managing the impacts of development and 19

other activities on coastal areas." To support its stated mission, CZMP provides grants to local governments, state agencies, and nonprofit organizations to implement coastal management program policies in Pennsylvania's two coastal areas Lake Erie and the Delaware Estuary. Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Program As part of the Coastal Zone Management Program, the Water Planning Office and Bureau of Watershed Management have implemented a Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Program (CNPP). Under the CNPP, Pennsylvania's priority estuarine and coastal management measures are being implemented to protect coastal waters from nonpoint source pollution resulting from urban runoff, agriculture, marinas and recreational boating, and hydromodification. In addition, CZMP is working to protect wetlands and riparian areas, and encourage use of vegetated treatment systems. Further, CZMP supports local projects implementing any management practices that accomplish the management measures, and enhance the capabilities of local organizations to prevent or minimize the CNPP-specific categories of nonpoint source pollution. Conservation districts and the Philadelphia Water Department have been partners in implementing the CNPP program. In lieu of traditional field data collection activities, the CZMP uses performance conditions to evaluate the effectiveness of CNPP grant projects. CZMP uses GIS and other available databases to evaluate long-term improvements and track changes in water quality within the CNPP management area. While CZPM may not conduct such activities, water quality data is collected from estuarine and coastal areas, but in the context of other Department programs. For example, Lake Erie and its watershed are monitored through WQN sampling and SSWAP assessment activities. Bacteriological monitoring is conducted on Lake Erie s public beaches. In order to increase its monitoring effectiveness, the Department has created and staffed a Great Lakes biologist position, whose duties will be to conduct DEP s water quality monitoring activities for Lake Erie and its Pennsylvania drainage area. These duties include SSWAP, cause/effect, lake, and stream enrichment assessments, fish tissue sampling, and other water quality investigations, as needed. 20

D. Core Water Quality Indicators In designating protective water uses, Pennsylvania considers the use and value of water for aquatic life, water supply, recreation and fish consumption, special protection (Antidegradation) and other purposes including navigation. Table D1 - lists the designated uses that have been adopted to protect Pennsylvania s waters. Table D1. Pennsylvania s Applicable Designated/Protected Uses By Chapter 93 Use Category 1 Aquatic Life Cold Water Fishes (CWF) Warm Water Fishes (WWF) Migratory Fishes (MF) Trout Stocking (TSF) Recreation Water Contact Sports (WC) Boating (B) Esthetics (E) Special Protection High Quality Waters (HQ) Exceptional Value Waters (EV) Water Supply Potable Water Supply (PWS) Fish Consumption Fishing (F) 1 The protected uses listed by Use Category include only currently those monitored by water quality programs. Historically, Pennsylvania s monitoring programs have relied on chemical/toxicological indicators to assess water quality. However, in recent years, biological/ecological and physical habitat endpoints have been incorporated into monitoring programs in order to effectively determine that applicable water quality standards are being attained. A core set of indicators appropriate for each water resource type is defined in this monitoring strategy. These indicators are monitored to provide Statewide or basin/watershed level information on the fundamental attributes of the aquatic environment and to assess water quality standards attainment/impairment status. Table D2 outlines the core indicators for each use category. Table D2. Recommended Water Quality Indicators For General Designated Use Categories Core Indicators Streams, Coastal Zones, & Estuaries AQUATIC LIFE & SPECIAL PROTECTION RECREATION FISH CONSUMPTION WATER SUPPLY Biological o Macroinvertebrate RBP o Fish Habitat Bacteriological Priority Organics, Metals (Risk Based) Great Lakes PCBs EPA Hg Potable Chemical (NO 2 -NO 3 ) 21

Core Indicators - Lakes AQUATIC LIFE RECREATION FISH CONSUMPTION WATER SUPPLY Biological o Fish Bacteriological Macrophyte cover Esthetics Priority Organics, Metals (Risk Based) Great Lakes PCBs EPA Hg Potable Chemical (NO 2 -NO 3 ) Core Indicators - Groundwater AQUATIC LIFE RECREATION FISH CONSUMPTION WATER SUPPLY N/A N/A N/A Physical, Chemical, Priority Organics Core Indicators - Wetlands AQUATIC LIFE RECREATION FISH CONSUMPTION WATER SUPPLY Biological ecological integrity & function N/A N/A N/A Benthic macroinvertebrate sampling supports most of the targeted aquatic life and special protection use assessments. The SSWAP assessments rely on family-level identifications to evaluate the biological community for impairment decisions. A more rigorous, genus-level RBP-based macroinvertebrate sampling and data analysis method is used to evaluate special protection stream uses by comparing metric index values to scoring criteria. Similar metric index-based methodology and scoring criteria are being developed for cause/effect surveys and stream surveys with specific habitats (e.g. low gradient, limestone, and limestone-influenced streams). Stream habitat assessments, similar to EPA qualitative RBP habitat protocols, supplement SSWAP s biological assessments (in determining physical impairments) and special protection surveys (for reference condition evaluations). Fish communities are sampled qualitatively in some smaller, cold water streams and quantitatively in larger warm water (Ohio fish IBI index) streams (where invertebrate assessments may not be practical) to make aquatic life use attainment evaluations. Fish IBI indices are under development for Atlantic drainage streams. Fish community sampling is also used in lake assessments. Bacteriological sampling results are applied to the appropriate Chapter 93 criteria to evaluate recreational use attainment at public beaches during the summer. Bacteriological-based criteria will be reviewed during the next standards triennial review. 22

Chemical sampling results are applied to drinking water criteria and fish tissue sampling results are reviewed under specific consumption advisory criteria to evaluate the monitored waterbodies for potable water supply and fish consumption protective uses. The chemical and priority organic core indicators applicable to water supply use also apply to groundwater sources serving public water supplies. The biological criteria to be applied to wetland assessments will be based on ecological integrity and function. These criteria are under development and testing as part of the cooperative wetland pilot study with EPA and PSU Cooperative Wetlands Center. 23

E. Quality Assurance An effective water quality monitoring program depends on the collection of reliable physical, chemical, and biological data. A quality-assurance system has been established to ensure that environmental data collection, validation, evaluation, and processing activities performed by or for the Department, results in the production of data that are valid and of known quality. The Department has developed a Quality Management Plan (QMP) to address the data quality assurance needs of its many regulatory program activities. The QMP requires and authorizes each program or activity that generates data for various business needs and decisions to develop and implement Quality Assurance Project Plans and/or Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) that specifies the detailed procedures required to ensure production of quality data. Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs) document the planning, implementation, and assessment procedures for on-going monitoring activities. Since many of these activities (e.g. Water Quality Monitoring Network, Antidegradation surveys) employ constant and repetitive protocols, their QAPPS encompass all survey activities conducted statewide as opposed to being written as a particular project-specific document. However, project-specific QAPPs are developed on an as-needed basis. Water quality related QAPPS and their status are listed below: Approved: o Surface Water Quality Monitoring Network (WQN) o Cause/Effect Surveys o Stream Enrichment Risk Analysis (SERA) o Toxics Surveys o Statewide Surface Water Assessment Program (SSWAP; Screening) o Instream Comprehensive Evaluation (ICE) Under revision: o Antidegradation (Aquatic Life Special Water Quality Protection Surveys) o Aquatic Life - Use Attainability Studies for Flowing and Impounded Water Bodies o Evaluations of Phosphorus Discharges to Lakes, Ponds and Impoundments Under development o Low Gradient Stream Assessment o Limestone Stream Assessment o Limestone-Influenced Stream Assessment o Ohio Drainage Warmwater Fish IBI o Lake Assessment Protocol These QAPPs consist of procedures, specifications, standards, and documentation required to produce data of adequate quality to meet monitoring survey and project objectives and minimize loss of data. Each QAPP is designed to ensure the following: 24

Monitoring program or study objectives are defined in specific qualitative and quantitative terms linked to an environmental management decision or reporting requirement. Selected indicators offer the most direct means of assessing the environmental attribute under study. Uncertainty associated with estimates and conclusions drawn from each component of the monitoring program is understood, quantified, and limited to a reasonable extent, commensurate with the potential costs of decision errors. Sampling design will yield data that are representative of the environmental attribute under study, with consideration of statistical probabilities associated with sampling. Data quality is assessed and validated to ensure that the data quality objectives of the programs were met. The Department s QMP requires that all QAPPs be periodically reviewed for their continuing applicability and updated or revised, as needed, to reflect technical advancements and monitoring program needs. Other organizations that generate data for the Department or as part of work under contract must follow the QAPP specific to the scope of work performed. Most of the WQN monitoring work is contracted to USGS, which follows the WQN QAPP guidance when performing the data collection and management under contract. 25

F. Data Management The Department s fixed station WQN (Water Quality Network) stream, lake, and groundwater chemistry data is stored in EPA s STORET database. Fish tissue results from all locations are also in STORET and the Department plans to transfer all WQN macroinvertebrate biological data to STORET as well. STORET is split into a Legacy and Modernized system. Legacy STORET contains all information prior to September 1988 and Modernized STORET all information collected after that date. Both STORET systems are accessible to the public through EPA s web site. Most Department water related data systems underwent conversion from several different Microsoft Access PC databases to a single integrated Oracle server based system in 2005. This provides a centralized data management system through which all water quality data can be accessed by all DEP offices and approved outside groups. All database information is tied to a GIS streams layer in order to take advantage of both the database and GIS reporting and analytical processes. This master water-related data repository and access management system is known as Stream and Lakes Integrated Management System (SLIMS). All biological and assessment functions of SLIMS are planned to be fully functional April 2006. The Department previously linked its Microsoft Access databases to its own 1/24,000 scale stream layer. This old layer was conflated onto a revised National Hydrograph Layer (NHD) in order to transfer the existing stream attributes onto the NHD. The NHD was not complete in Pennsylvania and required extensive corrections and modifications. These edits were completed in 2005 and as a result the Department is now using a much improved version of the NHD. The data systems that are included or linked to SLIMS are numerous. SLIMS is linked to two other major Department database systems. Results from chemical samples analyzed by the Department s laboratory are stored in the Oracle Sample Information System (SIS). Another Oracle system - Environmental Facilities, Application Compliance Tracking System (efacts), contains all discharge and permit related information. SIS and efacts are accessible to Department staff. Databases that were incorporated directly into SLIMS include stream and lake assessments (Integrated Report related information), macroinvertebrates, fish, instream habitat, and other related survey information such as local land use and field chemistry. A new TMDL tracking component was added. A stream GIS layer identifying Pennsylvania s tiered aquatic life uses by streams will be added to SLIMS upon completion of a quality assurance check. SLIMS is linked to the Department s emappa Web site which is accessible by the public. This is a GIS driven Web site where a user can find information related to a particular geographic location. Any data in SLIMS deemed suitable for public use can be displayed in emappa. The Wetlands Net Gain Program tracks functional wetland gains achieved through wetland enhancement projects, as well as acreage gains achieved through restoration programs. DEP tracks wetland gains geographically within watersheds and by 26

community type. Centralized data systems are used to compile, track and report wetland restoration and enhancement efforts. Wetland impacts and required replacement related to permit projects are monitored through efacts. 27

G. Data Analysis/Assessment The Department has developed a document entitled Assessment and Listing Methodology for the 2004 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report (available on the Department s web site: www.dep.state.pa.us). This document constitutes decision rules that the Department uses when assessing the quality of waters and identifying waterbodies that do not meet water quality standards. This assessment and listing methodology describes how Pennsylvania uses physical, chemical, habitat, and/or biological water quality indicator data to assess aquatic life, recreation, fish consumption, and water supply use attainment of its waterways. In addition, this document describes how data from outside sources is considered and evaluated. Key components of the assessment and listing methodology document include descriptions of: Interpretation of monitoring data with respect to water quality standards; Impairment sources and causes; Delisting requirements; Protocols for field assessments, and; Outside agency data and quality assurance requirements Brief summaries of these methods are provided below. Streams Aquatic Life Use Attainment Physical and Chemical Data - Physical data, such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, ph, and conductance are collected in the field as part of most stream surveys to help characterize stream types for appropriate stream assessment protocol application. Chemical data is also collected for specific survey purposes. At times, chemical parameter concentrations may exceed chemical criteria in Chapter 93. However, impairment decisions are generally not made on chemical assessments based on single, one-time grab samples. The limitations of chemical data utility for assessment decisions are discussed in the assessment and listing methodology document cited above. While limited physical and chemical data may not by useful in impairment decisions, resulting data can serve as a valuable screening tool by directing attention to areas that may need detailed assessment attention. Biological and Habitat Data - Pennsylvania s wadeable streams and rivers are assessed through the DEP s Statewide Surface Waters Assessment Program (SSWAP) described in Chapters B & C. SSWAP assessments collect benthic habitat and macroinvertebrate data. The benthic habitat assessment uses a 12 habitat criteriascoring protocol. SSWAP1 (1 st cycle) assessments evaluate benthic macroinvertebrate communities on site using narrative biological criteria for aquatic life use impairment decisions. SSWAP2 (2 nd cycle) biological assessment decisions will be based on multimetric scores derived from RBP samples. 28

The habitat scoring thresholds and SSWAP1 decision guidance are described in detail in the assessment and listing methodology document cited above. The multimetric scoring thresholds for SSWAP2 RBP assessments are under development as part of the Department s metrics development efforts. With support from an EPA grant, field samples were collected and processed and data analysis is in progress as part of the metrics verification phase. Lakes Physical and Chemical Data Traditionally, Pennsylvania lake assessment were heavily dependent on physical and chemical data collected during trophic status surveys. For some lakes, the resulting vertical profile data indicated occasional numeric criteria violations for temperature and dissolved oxygen. Most often, there was no consideration of resident healthy fish communities or that these were natural, limnological conditions for these lakes and most others in Pennsylvania. As a result, the current lake assessment protocol emphasizes fisheries assessments as a biological screening tool to direct further, detailed assessments. Biological Data - Fisheries data are examined for a number of parameters including species composition, fish community trophic structure (predator/prey relationships), recruitment, and recreational opportunities. Lake watershed land use/land cover data is examined for the presence of anthropogenic and natural (e.g., soil type) features that have the potential to substantially influence lake water quality. Final aquatic life use attainment decisions of lakes are made based primarily on the ecological integrity of their fish communities. However, chemical and physical water quality data, where available, and watershed land use/land cover data are also considered. Recreational Use Biological Data - Recreational use attainment decisions for Pennsylvania s surface waters are made using bacteriological indicator data collected by government agencies (including the DEP, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the United States Geological Survey) and citizen/volunteer groups. Important recreational areas and aquatic life use-impaired waterbodies with obvious potential sources of bacteria are targeted for bacteriological sampling. Sampling is conducted during the swimming season (May 1 through September 30). Recreational use attainment of a given waterbody is determined by comparing the geometric mean of the five consecutive fecal coliform samples collected from the waterbody to Pennsylvania s numerical standards. These standards are a maximum geometric mean of 200 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters (CFUs/100 ml) during the swimming season and 2000 CFUs during the offseason. Bacteriological sampling protocols and decision process are presented in the assessment and listing methodology document cited above. Fish Consumption Use Edible portions of recreationally important fish species commonly taken by anglers for consumption are sampled for consumption advisory determination. Threshold values for 29

PCBs, mercury, and other organic compounds are based on Food and Drug Administration (FDA) action levels and EPA s risk assessment for mercury (described in greater detail in the Department s document: Assessment And Listing Methodology For The 2004 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring And Assessment Report (Clean Water Act Section 305(b)/303(d) List) on the Department s web site: www.dep.state.pa.us). Water Supply Use. Biological Data The Department conducts filter plant performance evaluations at filtered public drinking water systems with surface water sources related to Giardia and Cryptosporidium contamination. The evaluation decision and action process is presented in Guidance for Giardia Sampling and Response (found at www.dep.state.pa.us). Chemical Water supply use attainment decisions for Pennsylvania s surface waters are made using data collected through water supplier self-monitoring efforts. The data are reviewed for compliance with appropriate criteria outlined in Pennsylvania's water quality standards. Currently, nitrite plus nitrate concentrations in the raw water are used as the principal screening tool for potable water supply use attainment decisions. While they are not traditionally a factor in potable water supply use attainment decisions, the Department receives and evaluates self-monitoring finished water chemical, radiological, and microbiological data from public water suppliers. These additional finished water evaluations are based on primary Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) or treatment technique requirements. The Department may also assess secondary MCLs when data for primary MCL criteria are inconclusive. Historically, when public water suppliers violate MCLs or treatment techniques, the suppliers have needed to design, construct, operate, and maintain added infrastructure to better treat the contaminated water - almost always at the suppliers' expense. In addition to these costs, a more important aspect of source water contamination involves public health concerns. If the source water concentrations overwhelm the treatment processes, or if a treatment breakdown occurs due to human error or equipment malfunction, the costs associated with a waterborne disease outbreak or other illnesses are staggering. To foster a "multiple barrier approach" to public health protection, the Department's water use attainment decisions have begun relating concentrations of specific contaminants in raw surface waters to the finished water quality in the potable water supply. The Department will continue to develop this relationship as Safe Drinking Water Regulations evolve and as national research findings establish a sound relationship between microbial indicators and various waterborne pathogens. Cooperative Agency Data Sources As presented in Chapter A Monitoring Program Strategy, the Department receives data from several cooperative agency monitoring initiatives (e.g. SSWAP, WQN, fish tissue). These initiatives involve governmental agencies (Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, EPA, USGS, and the Erie County Department of Health) and nongovernmental organizations (Susquehanna and Delaware River Basin Commissions and the Chesapeake Bay Program). The data submitted by these agencies are evaluated using the assessment and listing methodology specific to DEP monitoring 30

programs under which it was collected and is described above in the Aquatic Life Use Attainment, Recreational Use, and Human Health sections. In addition to the data collected under its cooperative SSWAP monitoring efforts, the PFBC occasionally submits fisheries data for Department consideration related to aquatic life use evaluations. While such fisheries data is not directly incorporated into the Department s assessment database, it often serves to initiate aquatic life use attainability studies for given stream segments. Outside Data Sources The Department is required to consider all data submissions from outside agencies and other sources in its decision-making process. However, data must meet minimal data requirements for proper consideration. These data requirements are provided in Assessment And Listing Methodology For The 2004 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring And Assessment Report (Clean Water Act Section 305(b)/303(d) List) this document may be used in the listing process and will be incorporated into the Department s 305(b) database. 31

H. Reporting The Department prepares water quality reports both on a recurring and as needed basis. Some of these efforts, such as the 2004 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report, compile information on statewide conditions while others (e.g. stream redesignation and stream investigations) apply to smaller, site-specific areas. Clean Water Act - Section 305(b) and 303(d) Reporting Requirements The Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report is prepared to fulfill the water quality reporting requirements of Section 305(b) and 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act. These CWA Sections require states to provide an assessment of water quality and to list all impaired waters not supporting uses even after appropriate and required water pollution control technologies have been applied. Currently, this report is prepared on a biennial basis. The 2004 Report integrated the reporting requirements of Sections 303(d) and 305(b) into one document for the first time. Future submissions will utilize this format. These reports provide summaries of various water quality management programs including water quality standards, point source control, and nonpoint source control. Descriptions of programs to protect lakes, wetlands, and groundwater quality are also included. The report presents a summary of the use support status of streams and lakes that have been assessed, as well as DEP's plan for achieving comprehensive assessment of surface waters. The waterbody-specific data on which the river and stream assessments are based is reported to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use in national assessments. The 305(b) reports and 303(d) lists are made available to the public on the Department s Internet web page (www.dep.state.pa.us, keyword: dep water quality) and by hard copy upon request. In order to develop the list required by 303(d) of the CWA, the Department is required to assemble and evaluate all existing and readily available water quality-related data and information. The term "existing and readily available" includes, but is not limited to, the following: i. Waters identified by the State in its most recent section 305(b) report as "not meeting" designated uses; ii. Waters for which water quality problems have been reported by local, state, or federal agencies; members of the public; or academic institutions. iii. Waters identified by the State as impaired or threatened in a non-point assessment submitted to EPA under section 319 of the CWA or in any updates of the assessment. Water Quality Assessment Reports The Department prepares other water quality assessment reports that are smaller in scope. These reports summarize water quality investigations for Antidegradation, existing use, cause/effect, compliance, and other similar surveys. Reports for 32

Antidegradation and existing use studies are posted on the Department s web site (www.dep.state.pa.us, keyword: dep water quality) for public review and comment. Cause/effect, compliance, and other similar surveys are usually conducted by regional office staff,. These reports are made available to the public upon request. Wetland Monitoring and Groundwater Programs The Department compiles annual reports on wetland replacement projects and posts them on the DEP web site (www.dep.state.pa.us ) (keyword: DEP wetlands ). Each project for a given report year is summarized with project descriptions and condition status. Ground water quality monitoring data collected by the Department is summarized and available on the DEP web site ( DEP groundwater protection ). Other Pennsylvania groundwater data is maintained in the Pennsylvania Groundwater Information System (PaGWIS) by the Pennsylvania Geologic Survey of the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR). Information on PaGWIS data is available on the DCNR website (dcnr.state.pa.us) 33

I. Programmatic Evaluation The Departmental mechanism for evaluating monitoring program effectiveness primarily involves periodic, internal reviews of specific monitoring program elements on a caseby-case basis. As new programs are developed or updated, assessment protocols and monitoring efforts that support implementation or methods development are revised as necessary to meet program needs. Statewide Surface Water Assessment Program The Statewide Surface Water Assessment Program (SSWAP) has been responsive to needs identified during data compilations from the earlier annual assessment efforts. Training, review sessions, and briefings are held to address identified monitoring problems or provide revised guidance as needed. As data from the early SSWAP biological screening assessment seasons were compiled, future assessment needs emerged. Further revisions to SSWAP assessment procedures and implementation began as impairment source and cause trends and growing TMDL program needs developed. As the TMDL program continues to develop and is implemented, data needs are made known to DEP monitoring staff. Revisions and guidance to data collection procedures are made accordingly. This has led to the changes from SSWAP biological screening to more detailed RBP assessments and source/cause determinations. Since the SSWAP was originally designed to be a statewide assessment to be completed in a mandated 10-year schedule, progress was simply measured in miles assessed per year. Identified impairments were categorized by sources and causes. Once remedial activities have been implemented, subsequent assessments will include an evaluation of their effectiveness in improving water quality of impaired waters. Water Quality Monitoring Network Field data collection activities for the fixed station water quality monitoring network (WQN) are performed primarily by the USGS under a joint funding agreement. The USGS collects field chemistry samples, flow data, and biological samples from designated stream and lake stations across the state. The WQN is reviewed frequently in light of changing program needs and resources. Recent adjustments were made to the Susquehanna River Basin portion of the WQN as the Department cooperated with the Susquehanna River Basin Commission and the USGS to implement a non-tidal nutrient monitoring program in the Chesapeake Bay drainage. Many of the Susquehanna basin WQN stations were included in this new monitoring CBP initiative. Several inactive WQN stations were reactivated, several were moved, and all of the selected stations were targeted for storm flow sampling. The WQN ambient reference stations are periodically moved or discontinued on a rotating-basin approach. Originally, ambient reference station monitoring was initiated to collect data representing ambient or least disturbed water quality conditions. They are rotated every five years with newer stations in different areas of the state. The collected 34

data support DEP metrics development for freestone streams. Revisions will soon be made that will target different stream types for future monitoring efforts. Antidegradation program The Antidegradation program has undergone periodic programmatic evaluation and revision as needed to meet its evolving needs. Previous evaluations of early stream assessment methods that were based on qualitative, best professional judgment revealed that it was difficult to make consistent assessment decisions between multiple staff. As a result, in order to assure consistency in Antidegradation program decisions, an RBP-based methodology was developed using EPA 1989 RBP guidance. The Antidegradation program has continued to evolve in response to regulatory changes, RBP advancements, and advisory committee reviews. For example, as the RBP database grew with stream survey data collected from various areas across the state, periodic data analysis indicated that improvements could be made to Pennsylvania s RBP sampling methodology and biological metrics development. As a result, there are several metrics development projects underway. Another programmatic evaluation determined the need to review selected waterbodies across the state that had special protection status without direct measure of their aquatic resources. Waterbodies with this legacy were previously as Conservation Areas. These types of programmatic reviews will continue to be applied in the future in order to meet growing needs and emerging Antidegradation issues. Lake Assessments There are many lakes, ponds, and impoundments in Pennsylvania; many of which have never been assessed. The Department began to assess Pennsylvania s 215 significant lakes on a rotating basis to determine the health of the fishery, status of recreational use attainment, and trophic status of each. The lakes trophic status was determined following methodology described in the Evaluation of Trophic Status Indices on Significant Pennsylvania Lakes (February 2001 revision) protocols. Many of these lake assessments resulted from cooperative efforts with EPA. When lake assessment results were evaluated in comparison to applicable water quality standards, it became apparent that some lakes were improperly characterized as impaired because the current lake assessment methodology and decision process did not assess all designated uses in an manner necessary for effective water quality management. As a result, the Department began to revise it lake assessment methodology (see Chapter C Monitoring Design... Lake Assessments) Specific Stream Habitat Assessments Early assessment methods applied to routine stream investigations were based on qualitative sampling and best professional judgment. However, programmatic evaluation of assessment methods based solely on BPJ, revealed that it was difficult to 35

apply BPJ effectively across differing stream types. For example, traditional BPJ biological observations applied to small, high gradient freestone streams may not be applicable to those needed for larger, low gradient streams, limestone streams, or other stream types. As a result, protocols are being developed for different specific stream habitats (see Chapter C Monitoring Design... Specific Stream Habitat Assessments). Point Source Compliance Surveys As with the Antidegradation and Specific Stream Habitat Assessment Sections discussed above, other monitoring program protocols that rely on BPJ components in their decision process, such as point source compliance surveys, are being reviewed and evaluated for revision. Wetlands and Groundwater Monitoring Programs The Department evaluates the effectiveness of its Wetlands Net Gain Strategy annually to measure its success in meeting wetland restoration goals and objectives. As previously described in Chapter C - Monitoring Design (Wetlands Monitoring and Groundwater sections) monitoring initiatives are being developed for other Wetlands and Groundwater monitoring activities. As a result, program evaluation mechanisms are being developed as part of those projects. The Department continually reviews monitoring program needs and responds accordingly by revising the assessment and listing methodology for the three water quality use categories. In reviewing monitoring program needs, the Department also responds to emerging issues that can enhance Pennsylvania s monitoring program. In order to expand aquatic life core indicators, the Department is currently developing fish IBI protocols for larger, warm water wadeable streams. In addition, efforts have been initiated to evaluate and possibly develop surface water assessment protocols based on periphyton. 36

J. General Support and Infrastructure Planning A strong, effective, statewide water quality monitoring program depends on periodic program review, enhancement, and adequate funding. Current funding support, for Pennsylvania s monitoring efforts, provides for a wide variety of monitoring activities covering the state s diverse waterbody types. However, as Pennsylvania s monitoring responsibilities continue to grow and respond to emerging water quality issues, the need for staff and related support costs grows concurrently. Three new positions were recently created with 604(b) funding support to help fill these needs but this represents only an initial commitment toward the needs projected in Table J-1. Pennsylvania s Water Quality Standards (WQS) are reviewed and revised as needed every three years (Triennial Review) to improve management and oversight of its water quality programs. Microbiological-based criteria will undergo review with the goal to support more effective recreational and water supply use assessments. Any adopted revisions would necessitate additional or changed monitoring program responsibilities. Proposed EPA requirements, such as the Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2), also require additional staff to review monitoring results. Funding considerations for some monitoring programs and pending program responsibilities are presented below and briefly summarized in Table J-1. SURFACE WATER QUALITY MONITORING NETWORK (WQN) Currently, the Surface Water Quality Monitoring Network is being operated through a joint funding agreement (JFA) with the USGS. In FY2004, Pennsylvania paid approximately $382,000 and USGS contributed $350,000 for their share of the WQN JFA. Assuming an approximate 5% annual increase in salaries and supplies, additional funding of approximately $19,100 would need to be budgeted for FY2005 in order to maintain the current WQN monitoring effort. Summary: $19,100 additional funds annually (assuming continued USGS joint funding efforts at the same proportional rate). NONTIDAL TRIBUTARIES WATER QUALITY MONITORING NETWORK In support of Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) nutrient reduction initiatives, DEP and other partner organizations (SRBC and USGS) have initiated the Nontidal Tributaries Water-Quality Monitoring Network. Data from this monitoring project will support Pennsylvania s efforts to reduce nutrients and sediment loading to the Chesapeake Bay. Currently, the network requires $100,000/year and long-term funding support has not been secured from EPA or CBP. Summary: $100,000 additional funds annually (assuming continued USGS joint funding efforts at the same proportional rate). 37

ANTIDEGRADATION Pennsylvania s Antidegradation program has grown in complexity and activity as the program underwent revisions during the last five years. Department regulations provide for a petition process that allows the public to request that water quality standards applying to a waterbody s designated uses be reviewed and changed as needed. Public interest and participation has grown significantly since the program s inception. This has resulted in increased staff workload. With these public petition requests and interagency review requests, approximately 10 to 15 related stream or basin surveys are conducted annually. Further, many watershed areas in Pennsylvania were designated as High Quality without the benefit of aquatic resource evaluations. The use designations of these watersheds need to be reviewed using a systematic approach to clarify or confirm their existing use. Currently, there are 4 field staff biologists responsible for these surveys as part of their program responsibilities. In order to meet the increasing demand for Antidegradation surveys and address current workloads, at least 2 more biologists are needed. Funding support would be approximately $110,000 for related salary and benefits. Summary: 2 new Central Office positions; $110, 000 additional funds annually. AQUATIC LIFE USE (WATERBODY ASSESSMENTS) Statewide Surface Water Assessment Program (SSWAP/ICE) The SSWAP program is currently phasing in a more detailed follow-up assessment that is an intensive RBP-based biological assessment protocol. This new assessment method, the Instream Comprehensive Evaluation (ICE), will result in significant increases in time and effort to conduct wadeable stream assessments. Currently, there are 8 FTE per year dedicated to conducting SSWAP assessments using the lessintensive biological screening protocol. Based on similar protocols applied on smaller, localized scales, initial estimates indicate the current SSWAP staff complement must be doubled to complete recurring assessment cycles in a reasonable time period (5-10 years). Eight additional positions would cost an additional $440,000 per year. Summary: 8 new positions; $440, 000 additional funds annually. Lake Assessments Currently, there is one staff position dedicated to lake monitoring and related activities. However, other staff members participate in lake related activities on a limited and variable basis. As stated previously, about 10 lakes are assessed annually. In order to affect a meaningful increase in this assessment effort, one additional staff position should be funded at approximately $55,000 annually. Summary: 1 new position; $55, 000 additional funds annually. 38

Multimetric-based Assessment Protocols In support of the Aquatic Life Use monitoring and assessment programs discussed in Chapters A-D, additional benthic and fish metric index-based assessment methods are under development for Pennsylvania streams. Benthic metric and scoring criteria are being developed for Instream Comprehensive Evaluation (ICE) surveys and habitatspecific surveys (e.g. low gradient, limestone, and limestone-influenced streams). Similar efforts are underway with fish IBI development for wadeable warmwater streams in the Ohio and Atlantic Slope drainages. These assessment methods and development status are described below: Field dataset Benthic Metrics Projects in Progress* Metrics & Criteria Development Verification/ Technical Review Implementation Instream Comprehensive Evaluation (ICE) Surveys Summer Assessments Complete In process 1 st Quarter, 2006 2 nd Quarter, 2006 Fall-Spring Assessments (EPA and contractor supported by an EPA REMAP grant) Complete In process 2nd Quarter, 2006 4th Quarter 2006 Limestone Streams Complete Complete 4th Quarter, 2005 2nd Quarter, 2006 Limestone-Influenced Streams Complete 4th Quarter, 2005 2nd Quarter, 2006 October 2006 Low-gradient Streams Complete Complete 4th Quarter, 2005 * Progress Quarters are in Calendar Years 2nd Quarter, 2006 Summary: Additional computer support for metrics data analysis is needed See summary in Related Operational Support Cost Section below Fish Metrics Projects in Progress Fish metrics assessment protocols are currently under development. An application for a REMAP grant ($192,000) to support contractor-assisted fish IBI development for wadeable, warmwater streams in Pennsylvania will be re-submitted to EPA during the 1 st Quarter of 2006 pending the grant application announcement. The listed goals are contingent on the REMAP grant being awarded. A portion of the REMAP grant would support verification of the Ohio Drainage Fish IBI. The Ohio Fish IBI Protocol has been submitted for publication in a scientific journal. The remainder of the REMAP grant would support collection of the field data needed to develop IBI metrics scoring criteria for the Atlantic Slope drainage in Pennsylvania. Some of this field dataset has been collected but additional samples are needed. Goals: Complete Ohio field data collection by 3rd Quarter 2007 39

Complete laboratory specimen verification and data tabulation by 2nd Quarter 2008 Test verification of Ohio dataset and finalize Ohio IBI by 4th Quarter 2008 Complete field data collection for Atlantic Slope metrics development by 3rd Quarter 2008 Summary: $384,000; additional funds needed for Ohio and Atlantic Slope IBI completion. WATER SUPPLY USE DEP staff currently assesses potable water supply use attainment by reviewing selfmonitoring reports and raw (intake) water quality. Adoption of EPA s proposed Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2) will soon require more stringent self-monitoring of microbiological indicators by public water suppliers. Periodic audits of source water monitoring by DEP would be an important component to add to an effective water supply monitoring program. Once the LT2 Rule is in effect and DEP s Water Quality Standards are evaluated for compatibility, DEP would like to initiate a pilot monitoring program that will parallel LT2 Rule and current instream, source water monitoring efforts conducted by water suppliers. Additional staff and funding are needed to implement this program. Long-term resource estimates to operate a continuous source water monitoring program will be made based on the pilot monitoring results. Summary: 1 new Central Office and 4 new Regional Office positions; $215, 000 additional personnel funds annually Analytical Support: $80,000/year RECREATIONAL USE A pilot assessment project based on bacteriological sampling has been initiated. This project involves development of a model for use in assessing bacteriological densities, development of a monitoring plan and ultimately validation of the model through pilot watershed sampling. Current funding will support the initial work but, as recreational assessment efforts expand, additional funding will be needed. A review of future funding needs will be based on the results and experiences gained from the pilot assessment. Recent efforts have also been made to expand citizen volunteer monitoring group participation in these assessment efforts. Currently, the goal of Citizen Volunteer Monitoring (CVM) is to collect 100 samples per year through their volunteer monitoring groups. Presently, CVM is budgeted $10,000 to cover analytical costs for participating CVM groups. A CVM goal is to increase CVM group participation to 500 samples per year. Summary: CVM analytical support for 400 additional samples: $40,000 additional funds annually. Implementation of bacteriological sampling in support of recreational use assessment/modeling: 2 field staff: $110,000; Analytical Support: to be determined based on modeling development needs 40

WETLANDS Wetlands Monitoring Pilot Project The Department is in the process of beginning a pilot project to test, verify, and evaluate a wetlands monitoring protocol with the intention to use it on the statewide level. For the two-year pilot project, it is estimated that approximately $270,000 is needed to support 2 full-time and 2 part-time wetlands field staff and provide for related costs. Once the pilot project is completed and reviewed, long-term funding support will be estimated. Summary: 2 full-time and 2 part-time positions; $135,000/annual (This will be revised for long-term support based on pilot project results). CITIZEN VOLUNTEER MONITORING The Citizen Volunteer Monitoring Program (CVMP) provides training, support and technical assistance to volunteer monitoring groups that collect data for recreational use assessments and lake water quality. Program goals include increasing volunteer involvement and increasing DEP staff support of the program. Summary: 1 new Central Office and 6 new Regional Office positions; $325, 000 additional funds annually RELATED OPERATIONAL AND SUPPORT COSTS Laboratory Quality Assurance Analytical services provided by the Department s Bureau of Laboratories encompass most of Pennsylvania s water quality monitoring programs and generally are not operationally specific to any given project. However, to insure proper quality assurance (QA) for individual water quality monitoring projects, quality assurance project plans (QAPPs) are periodically reviewed and updated and field QA samples are collected as necessary. Since quality assurance activities are an integral part of all DEP projects, support costs are not limited to any single staff position. Based on technical staff QA activities (field sampling, analytical costs, and QAPP reviews), current support costs are estimated at $55, 000 per year. Summary; QA activities (partial staff time) of technical field positions and related laboratory analytical support; $55,000 annual cost. Computer Support/Data Analysis Needs Computer work stations will eventually be needed would be needed in support of proposed growth in work outputs as part of the SSWAP/ICE assessment program and 41

on-going biological metric development. Approximately six upgraded computers are also required for Regional data entry to the Department s central database (SLIMS; see Chapter F) that is the repository for water quality assessment data. Summary: Six desktop computers: $11,400 GREAT LAKES OFFICE In order to better address the specific water quality monitoring needs of large lake systems, the Department has created and staffed a Great Lakes biologist position, whose duties will be to conduct DEP s water quality monitoring activities for Lake Erie and its Pennsylvania drainage area. These duties include use attainment assessments, cause/effect surveys, lake, and stream enrichment assessments, fish tissue sampling, and other water quality investigations, as needed. Lake Erie and its related drainage area are in need of more intensive monitoring and assessment activities. Resource support needs are summarized below: Presque Isle Bay Area of Concern Presque Isle Bay was designated as an EPA Area of Concern (AOC) in 1991 primarily because of fish tumor problems in the local brown bullhead population. A remedial action plan (RAP) was developed in 1993. Numerous fish tissue, sediment, and water quality monitoring studies have been conducted since the RAP was submitted. As a result of RAP monitoring and remedial activities, the Presque Isle Bay AOC was the first US AOC to be declared to be in a "Recovery Stage." Further monitoring (histopathology and specialized sediment toxicity testing) and remediation is needed for Presque Isle Bay to be delisted as an AOC. Summary: Analytical Support: $25,000/year Lake Monitoring Boat The specialized, large water boat currently in use is almost 20 years old and needs to be replaced as a result of wear and tear. Summary: Replacement Estimate: $140,000 Personnel Support Additional personnel support for the Great Lakes Office is needed to meet increasing water quality monitoring demands posed by Presque Isle Bay AOC projects, TMDL development, ICE assessments, and aquatic invasive species issues. Summary: 1 new position: $55, 000 additional funds annually. 42

Table J-1. Summary of Annual Resources Needed beyond Current Support Program New Positions Funding Support Central Regional Salary Analytical/Other Special grants Surface WQN $17,250 $1,250 Nontidal Trib. WQN $100,000 Antidegradation/Special Protection 2 $110,000 SSWAP/ICE 8 $440,000 Lakes 1 $55,000 Fish Metrics $384,000 Source Water 1 4 $215,000 $80,000 Recreational Use/CVMP $40,000 Recreational Use 2 $110,000 bacterial modeling To be determined Wetland - pilot project $135,000 CVMP program support 1 6 $325,000 Great Lakes Office 1 $55,000 $165,000 Operational Support Laboratory QA $55,000 Computer support $11,400 Annual/Recurring 5 21 $1,462,500 $352,650 Short Term Grant Support $484,000 Total $2,299,150 43