Developing and Implementing TMDLs - SONC ESU

Implemented TMDLs and addressed other nonpoint sources of pollution to achieve and maintain water quality standards that support healthy populations of salmonids. Although no recovery plan has yet been developed for this ESU, DEQ coordinated with local professionals familiar with limiting factors or existing watershed assessments to address water quality impairments such as temperature and sedimentation. 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 worked 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 addresses impacts associated with past mining, timber harvest and road construction and use in the Sucker Creek tributary to the Illinois River. These past management activities have caused high stream temperatures and excessive fine sediment inputs. Restoration of the floodplain, riparian area, and stream channel through riparian planting, channel reconstruction, road decommissioning, and large wood placement will help address the water quality impairments. Approximately 1,100 feet of private land and 1,800 of public land will be restored for a total connected stream length of approximately 2,900 feet (0.5 miles).

Goal is to achieve water quality standards to ensure that the rivers and streams in the SONC ESU 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 reduced stream temperature, reduced inputs of fine sediment from the project reach, increased habitat quantity and improve habitat quality.