TMDL and Nonpoint Source Implementation - Lower Columbia ESU

Implemented TMDLs and addressed other nonpoint sources of pollution to address water quality problems that threaten salmonids, including high water temperatures, agricultural chemicals, loss of riparian vegetation and excessive levels of fine sediments. These have been identified as limiting factors in the Lower Columbia River Conservation and Recovery Plan. DEQ ensured that entities who have authority to manage and regulate nonpoint sources of pollution (e.g., local governments, BLM, USFS, dam managers) developed and implemented effective water quality improvement plans. DEQ works with Oregon Dept. of Agriculture and Oregon Dept. of Forestry to ensure that the Agricultural Water Quality Management Plans and rules and Forest Practices Rules are sufficient to achieve the nonpoint source pollutant load reduction targets established in the TMDL for the agricultural and non-federal forestry sectors. DEQ staff assisted with coordination among stakeholders to leverage resources to achieve water quality objectives, and provided water quality expertise to groups involved in designing riparian restoration projects. DEQ staff were also involved in the review of OWEB grants and Section 319 nonpoint source grants to ensure monies are used effectively to address high priority restoration objectives, and in monitoring/evaluating the effectiveness of pollution prevention and restoration projects. One such project involved riparian planting and maintenance on private land along North Fork Deep, Eagle, Goose, Rock and Clear Creeks. These creeks are tributaries to the lower Clackamas River and all support salmon or steelhead spawning and rearing. The project will help mitigate the limiting factors of high water temperatures, agricultural chemicals and sediments.

Goal is to achieve water quality standards to ensure that the Lower Columbia River and its tributaries can support healthy populations of salmonids and other aquatic life. Purpose is to work with action agencies, local governments, watershed councils and other stakeholders to ensure restoration efforts are well-designed and targeted at highest priority restoration needs. DEQ staff coordinate with federal, state and local partners to help ensure riparian restoration activities are coordinated with in-stream habitat restoration to make effective use of restoration resources and to restore stream function to meet water quality and fish management goals. Expected benefits include reduction in thermal loading to rivers, improved riparian condition and reduction in loading of agricultural chemicals and sediments to the river.