California Code of Regulations
Title 23 - Waters
Division 4 - Regional Water Quality Control Boards
Chapter 1 - Water Quality Control Plans, Policies, and Guidelines
Article 7 - Colorado River Basin Region
Section 3962 - A Total Maximum Daily Load for Pathogens in the New River
Current through Register 2024 Notice Reg. No. 38, September 20, 2024
A Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for pathogens discharged to the New River was adopted on October 10, 2001 by the Colorado River Basin Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board). This resolution (No. 01-197) modified the Water Quality Control Plan for the Colorado River Basin Region. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) must approve the TMDL.
The New River Pathogens TMDL specifies water quality objectives to protect the River's beneficial uses, which currently are impaired by high pathogen levels. Fecal coliforms, E. Coli and enterococci bacteria serve as pathogen indicators. The pathogens load is allocated among point and non-point sources in the New River sub-watershed. All U.S. wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) within the sub-watershed must utilize disinfection equipment within 1 year of USEPA approval. TMDL objectives are to be achieved no later than 3 years after USEPA approval.
Regional Board staff is required to submit reports to the Regional Board that:
(1) Detail compliance with the implementation plan for the TMDL that specifies responsible parties and time schedules,
(2) Update financial options for implementation measures, and
(3) Detail implementation progress every six months.
The New River Pathogens TMDL will be re-evaluated and revised, if appropriate, based upon new monitoring data and studies.
1. New section summarizing regulatory provisions of amended basin plan filed 5-23-2002; operative 5-23-2002. Resolution 01-197 adopted by Colorado River Basin Regional Water Quality Control Board 10-10-2001. Approved by OAL pursuant to Government Code section 11353 (Register 2002, No. 21).
