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PA Bulletin, Doc. No. 00-2168

NOTICES

Request for Comments and Notice of Public Meetings for the Proposed Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)

[30 Pa.B. 6482]

Thorn Run Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on January 18, 2001, beginning at 1 p.m. at the PA-DEP District Mining Office in Greensburg, Westmoreland County, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. Two stream segments in the Thorn Run watershed have been identified as impaired on the 1996 and 1998 Pennsylvania 303(d) list due to excess loading from metals. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Code Stream Name Degraded Cause
42977 Thorn Run 1.01 Metals
42991 Un-named Trib to Thorn Run 0.61 Metals

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) that meet water quality standards.

   The impaired stream segments are polluted by acid mine drainage from long-abandoned coal mines for which there are no existing, responsible parties. The primary purpose of the TMDL is to identify levels to which in-stream pollutants should be reduced to cause the stream segments to sustain their designated use. The TMDL identifies these levels at specific points on the streams, based on statistical analysis of water sampling results.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Chuck Yingling, Division of Water Quality Assessment and Standards, Bureau of Watershed Conservation, PA DEP, 400 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555, (717) 787-9637. E-mail will be received at yingling.clarence@dep.state.pa.us. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Friday, January 12, 2001. Specific directions to the District Mining Office in Greensburg can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed.

   Written comments and email will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

Two Mile Run Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on Monday, January 8, 2001, beginning at 10 a.m., to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of the 1996 Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. The location for the meeting will be the Clinton County Conservation District Office in the Porter Township Community Building on Spring Run Road in Mill Hall, PA. Four stream segments in the Two Mile Run Watershed have been identified as impaired on the 1996 and 1998 Pennsylvania 303(d) list due to depressed pH and /or high concentrations of metals. The listed segments and approximate miles degraded are shown in the following table:

Stream Code Stream Name Miles Degraded
23663 Two Mile Run 2.4
23664 Huling Branch 2.5
23670 Middle Branch 1.0
not listed Robbins Hollow Run 0.8

   The proposed plan provides calculations of stream's total capacity to accept metals (aluminum, iron, manganese) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) that maintain levels to meet water quality standards.

   The primary pollutant source for the watershed is abandoned mine workings. This watershed was previously mined heavily for coal and the effects are still present. The primary purpose of the TMDL is to identify levels to which in-stream pollutants should be reduced to cause the stream segments to sustain their designated use. The TMDL identifies these levels at specific points on the streams, based on statistical analysis of water sampling results.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Scott Barnes, Hydrogeologist, Hawk Run District Mining Office, Empire Road, P. O. Box 209, Hawk Run, PA 16840-0209, (814) 342-8200. E-mail will be received at barnes.scott@dep.state.pa.us. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Tuesday, January 2, 2001. Specific directions to the Clinton County Conservation District Office can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed.

   Written comments and email will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

Shoup Run Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on January 16, 2001, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Borough Building in Coalmont, Huntingdon County, PA to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. Three stream segments in the Shoup Run Watershed have been identified as impaired on the 1996 and 1998 Pennsylvania 303(d) list due to excess loading from metals and low pH. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown below in the following table:

StreamMiles
Stream Code Name Degraded Cause
13717 Shoup Run 7.7 Metals & pH
13717 Hartman Run 1.1 Metals & pH
13717 Miller Run 2.4 Metals & pH

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) that maintain levels to meet water quality standards.

   The TMDL sets allowable loading rates for metals and acidity at specified points in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of the TMDL is field data collected from 1983 through 2000.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. A copy of the TMDL, supporting information, and an information sheet can be obtained by contacting Jon Smoyer, Cambria Office, Department of Environmental Protection, 286 Industrial Park Road, Ebensburg, PA 15931-4119, (814) 472-1900. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Tuesday, January 9, 2001. Specific directions to the Borough Building in Coalmont can be obtained by contacting this office. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Borough Building in Coalmont, Huntingdon County, PA can also be obtained by contacting this address.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

Cold Stream Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on January 11, 2001, beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the DEP, Hawk Run District Office, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of the Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act.. One stream segment in the Cold Stream Watershed has been identified as impaired on the 1996 and 1998 Pennsylvania 303(d) list due to depressed pH and/or high concentrations of metals. The listed segment and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Stream Code Name Degraded Cause
25831 Cold Stream 1.18 Metals, pH

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) that maintain levels to meet water quality standards.

   The primary pollutant source for the watershed is abandoned mine workings. This watershed was mined heavily for coal the effects are still present. All of the allocations made in the TMDL are load allocations (LA) which are made to nonpoint sources of pollution.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact John S. Berry, Hydrogeologist, Hawk Run District Mining Office, Empire Road, P. O. Box 209, Hawk Run, PA 16840-0209, (814) 342-8200. E-mail will be received at berry.john@dep.state.pa.us. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Thursday, January 4, 2001. Specific directions to the Hawk Run District Office can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Hawk Run District Office meeting place can also be obtained by contacting this address.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

Kittanning Run

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on January 8, 2001 at 6:30 p.m. at the Blair County Courthouse Addition (basement) to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. The Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) draft report addresses impairment to the Kittanning Run watershed, located primarily in Logan Township, Blair County. The TMDL addresses impairments noted on the Pennsylvania 1996 and 1998 Section 303(d) list for impairment due to excess loading of metals. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Stream Code Name Degraded Cause
16423 Kittanning Run 3.74 Metals

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum), and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) that maintain levels to meet water quality standards.

   The impaired stream segments are polluted by acid mine drainage from long abandoned coal mines for which there are no existing, responsible parties. The primary purpose of the TMDL is to identify levels to which in-stream pollutants should be reduced to cause the stream segments to sustain their designated use. The TMDL identifies these levels at specific points on the streams, based on statistical analysis of water sampling results.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact John Conrad, Cambria Office, Department of Environmental Protection, 286 Industrial Park Road, Ebensburg, PA 15931-4119, (814) 472-1900. Email will be received at conrad.john@dep.state.pa.us. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Tuesday, January 2, 2001. Specific directions to the Blair County Courthouse can be obtained by contacting this office. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

McKee Run Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on Thursday, January 25, 2001, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Church of The Resurrection School Hall in Ernest, PA, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. One stream segment in the McKee Run Watershed has been identified as impaired on the 1996 and 1998 Pennsylvania 303(d) list due to excess loading from metals. The listed segment and miles degraded are shown below in the following table:

StreamMiles
Stream Code Name Degraded Cause
46785 McKee Run 1.5 Metals

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) that maintain levels to meet water quality standards.

   The TMDL sets allowable loading rates for metals and acidity at specified points in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of the TMDL is field data collected from 1996 through 1999.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. A copy of the TMDL, supporting information, and an information sheet can be obtained by contacting Miles Baird, Cambria Office, Department of Environmental Protection, 286 Industrial Park Road, Ebensburg, PA 15931-4119, (814) 472-1900. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Thursday, January 18, 2001. Specific directions to the Church of the Resurrection School hall can be obtained by contacting this office. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Church of The Resurrection School Hall in Ernest, PA can also be obtained by contacting this address.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

Lockard Run Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on January 10, 2001 beginning at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, Exit 9 off I-80 in Clarion, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. The TMDL report addresses impairments to the Lockard Run Watershed in Scrubgrass Township, Venango County. One stream segment in the Little Scrubgrass Creek Watershed has been identified as impaired on the 1996 and 1998 Pennsylvania 303(d) list due to excess loading from metals. The listed segment and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Stream Code Name Degraded Cause
51197 Lockard Run 2.0 Metals

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) that maintain levels to meet water quality standards.

   The impaired stream segments are polluted by acid mine drainage from long abandoned coal mines for which there are no existing, responsible parties. The primary purpose of the TMDL is to identify levels to which in-stream pollutants should be reduced to cause the stream segments to sustain their designated use. The TMDL identifies these levels at specific points on the streams, based on statistical analysis of water sampling results.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Lorraine Odenthal, Knox District Mining Office, P. O. Box 669, Knox, PA 16232, (814) 797-1191. E-mail will be received at odenthal.lorraine@dep.state.pa.us. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Thursday, January 4, 2001. Specific directions to the Holiday Inn can also be obtained by contacting this office. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

Hans Yost Creek and Rausch Creek Watersheds

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on Tuesday, January 9, 2001, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Hegins Township Water Authority in Valley View, PA, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL established in accordance with the requirements of the Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Two stream segments in the Hans Yost Creek Watershed in Schuylkill County and three stream segments in the Rausch Creek Watershed in Dauphin and Schuylkill Counties have been identified as impaired on the 1996 and 1998 Pennsylvania 303(d) lists. Impairments in the Hans Yost Creek Watershed are due to low pH and an unknown cause that was determined to be metals. The Rausch Creek Watershed is impaired due to excess loading from metals, siltation, and low pH. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Code Stream Name Degraded Cause
17259 Hans Yost Creek 3.36 PH, unknown
17266 Rausch Creek 1.7 Metals
17267 West Branch Rausch Creek 3.5 Metals
17268 East Branch Rausch Creek 1.9 Metals, pH, Siltation

   The proposed plans provide calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) and maintain levels below water quality criteria. The Rausch Creek Watershed also includes siltation.

   The TMDL sets allowable loading rates for metals and acidity at specified points in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of the TMDL is field data collected between 1972 and 1999.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Lee McDonnell, Dept. of Environmental Protection, 10th Floor RCSOB, P. O. Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555, (717) 783-2938. Email will be received at Mcdonnell.Lee@dep.state.pa.us. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Hegins Township Water Authority can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Friday January 5, 2001.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Fall Brook and Morris Run Watersheds

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on Tuesday, January 16, 2001, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Mansfield Fire Hall in Mansfield, PA, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL established in accordance with the requirements of the Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Five stream segments in the Fall Brook Watershed in Tioga County and eight segments in the Morris Run Watershed in Tioga County have been identified as impaired on the 1996, 1998, and draft 2000 Pennsylvania 303(d) lists due to low pH and high levels of metals. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Code Stream Name Degraded Cause
31506 Fall Brook 6.83 Metals, pH
31519 Fall Brook, Unt 1.15 Metals, pH
31521 Fall Brook, Unt 0.98 Metals, pH
31522 Fall Brook, Unt 0.91 Metals, pH
31523 Fall Brook, Unt 0.15 Metals, pH
31480 Morris Run 2.27 Metals, pH
31481 Morris Run, Unt 0.56 Metals, pH
31483 Morris Run, Unt 0.67 Metals, pH
31484 Morris Run, Unt 1.4 Metals, pH
31485 Morris Run, Unt 0.59 Metals, pH
31486 Morris Run, Unt 0.36 Metals, pH
31487 Morris Run, Unt 0.35 Metals, pH
31488 Morris Run, Unt 0.2 Metals, pH

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) and maintain levels below water quality criteria.

   The TMDL sets allowable loading rates for metals and acidity at specified points in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of the TMDL is field data collected from 1966 to 1999.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Lee McDonnell, Dept. of Environmental Protection, 10th Floor RCSOB, P. O. Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555, (717) 783-2938. Email will be received at Mcdonnell.lee@dep.state.pa.us. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Mansfield Fire Hall can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Friday January 12, 2001.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Little Muddy Run Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on Thursday, January 11, 2001, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Hawk Run District Mining Office in Phillipsburg, PA, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL established in accordance with the requirements of the Section 303(d) the Clean Water Act. Seven stream segments in the Little Muddy Run Watershed in Clearfield and Cambria Counties have been identified as impaired on the 1996, 1998, and draft 2000 Pennsylvania 303(d) lists due to low pH and high levels of metals. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Code Stream Name Degraded Cause
26246 Little Muddy Run 5.07 pH, Metals
26247 Little Muddy Run, Unt 1.57 pH
26248 Little Muddy Run, Unt 1.67 pH
26249 Little Muddy Run, Unt 0.39 pH
26255 Little Muddy Run, Unt 0.95 pH
26250 East Branch Little Muddy Run 1.92 pH
26251 East Branch Little Muddy Run, Unt 0.46 pH

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) and maintain levels below water quality criteria.

   The TMDL sets allowable loading rates for metals and acidity at specified points in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of the TMDL is field data collected from 1970-1999.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Lee McDonnell, Dept. of Environmental Protection, 10th Floor RCSOB, P. O. Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555, (717) 783-2938. Email will be received at Mcdonnell.Lee@dep.state.pa.us. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Hawk Run District Mining Office can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Friday January 5, 2001.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Bear Creek Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on Wednesday, January 10, 2001, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the Wiconisco Township Building near Lykens, PA, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL established in accordance with the requirements of the Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Two stream segments in the Bear Creek Watershed in Dauphin County have been identified as impaired on the 1996 and draft 2000 Pennsylvania 303(d) lists due to high levels of metals. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Stream Code Name Degraded Cause
17041 Bear Creek 4.81 Metals
17042 Bear Creek, Unt 0.46 Metals

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) and maintain levels below water quality criteria.

   The TMDL sets allowable loading rates for metals and acidity at specified points in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of the TMDL is field data collected from 1970 to 2000.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Lee McDonnell, Dept. of Environmental Protection, 10th Floor RCSOB, P. O. Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555, (717) 783-2938. Email will be received at Mcdonnell.Lee@dep.state.pa.us. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Wiconisco Township Building can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Friday January 5, 2001.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Tangascootack Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on Monday, January 8, 2001 beginning at 1 p.m. at the Clinton County Conservation District Office in the Porter Township Community Building on Spring Run Road in Millhall, PA, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of the 1996 Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Three stream segments in the Tangascootack Watershed have been identified as impaired on the 1996 and 1998 Pennsylvania 303(d) list due to depressed pH and/or high concentrations of metals. The listed segment(s) and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

Miles
Stream Code Stream Name Degraded
23332 Tangascootack Creek 7.97
23380 Tangascootack Creek 0.61
23391 Tangascootack Creek 2.04

   The proposed plan provides calculations of stream's total capacity to accept metals (aluminum, iron, manganese) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) that meet water quality standards.

   The primary pollutant source for the watershed is abandoned coal and clay mine workings. This watershed was mined heavily for coal the effects are still present. The primary purpose of the TMDL is to identify levels to which in-stream pollutants should be reduced to cause the stream segment to sustain their designated use. The TMDL identifies these levels at specific points on the streams, based on statistical analysis of water sampling results.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact David Bisko, Hydrogeologist, Hawk Run District Mining Office, Empire Road, P. O. Box 209, Hawk Run, PA 16840-0209, (814) 342-8200. E-mail will be received at Bisko.David@dep.state.pa.us. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Tuesday, January 2, 2001. Specific directions to the Clinton County Conservation District Office can also be obtained by contacting this office. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

Shamokin Creek Watershed

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on Wednesday, January 17, 2001, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Mount Carmel Public Library in Mt. Carmel, PA, to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL established in accordance with the requirements of the Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Six stream segments in the Shamokin Creek Watershed in Northumberland and Columbia Counties have been identified as impaired on the 1996 Pennsylvania 303(d) list due to high levels of metals. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Stream Code Name Degraded Cause
18489 Shamokin Creek 32.78 Metals
18652 Quaker Run 1.29 Metals
18651 Coal Run 4.7 Metals
18647 Carbon Run 3.8 Metals
18657 North Branch Shamokin Creek 4.6 Metals
18655 Locust Creek 1.69 Metals

   The proposed plan provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) and maintain levels below water quality criteria.

   The TMDL sets allowable loading rates for metals and acidity at specified points in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of the TMDL is field data collected from 1970 to 2000.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Lee McDonnell, Dept. of Environmental Protection, 10th Floor RCSOB, P. O. Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555, (717) 783-2938. Email will be received at Mcdonnell.Lee@dep.state.pa.us. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Mount Carmel Public Library can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Friday January 12, 2001.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Whites Run and Parks Run Watersheds

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on January 10, 2001 at 5 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, Exit 9 of I-80 in Clarion, to discuss and accept comments on proposed TMDL's, established in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. The Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) draft reports address impairment to the Whites Run watershed in Clarion Township, Clarion County and the Parks Run watershed in Eldred Township, Jefferson County. The TMDL's address impairments noted on of the Pennsylvania 1996 and 1998 Section 303(d) list. The impaired stream segments are polluted by acid mine drainage from completed coal mines and/or from abandoned coal mines for which there are no existing, responsible parties. The listed segments and miles degraded are shown in the following table:

StreamMiles
Stream Code Name Degraded Cause
49789 Parks Run 1 pH
49707 Whites Run 2 Metals

   The proposed plan for Whites Run provides calculations of the stream's total capacity to accept metals (iron, manganese, and aluminum) and acidity (used as a surrogate for pH) and maintain levels below water quality criteria. The Parks Run Watershed only addresses acidity as a surrogate for pH.

   The TMDL sets allowable loading rates for the above listed in-stream pollutants at specified points in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of the TMDL is field data collected from 1970 to 2000.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact Lorraine Odenthal, Knox District Mining Office, P. O. Box 669, Knox, PA 16232, (814) 797-1191. Email will be received at Odenthal.Lorraine@dep.state.pa.us. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Directions to the Wiconisco Township Building can also be obtained by contacting this address. Persons who plan to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than Friday, January 5, 2001.

   Written and email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

North Fork Cowanesque River Watershed

Potter and Tioga Counties

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) will hold a public meeting to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL for the North Fork Cowanesque watershed in Potter and Tioga Counties. The meeting will be held on January 29, 2001 at 2 p.m. in the PADEP NorthCentral Regional Office, 208 West Third Street--Suite 101, Williamsport, PA 17701-6448. This TMDL is established in accordance with the requirements of Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Pennsylvania's 1996, 1998 and draft 2000 Section 303(d) lists included surface waters in the North Fork Cowanesque River Watershed due to impairments caused by excessive siltation, suspended solids and/or nutrients from agricultural land uses in the watershed.

   The Department currently does not have water quality criteria for sediment or nutrients. Therefore, the Department established water quality objectives for them using a reference watershed approach. The TMDL sets allowable loadings of sediment and phosphorus in the North Fork Cowanesque River Watershed. Phosphorus was chosen as the TMDL endpoint for nutrient impairments because it is the limiting nutrient in this watershed. The sediment and phosphorus loadings were allocated among all land use categories in the watershed. Data used in establishing this TMDL were generated using a water quality analysis model (AVGWLF) designed by the Pennsylvania State University.

   The following table shows the existing sediment and phosphorus loadings and the TMDLs for the North Fork Cowanesque River Watershed (including unnamed tributaries, the White Branch and Mink Hollow).

% Reduction
ExistingTMDL Loadto meet
ParameterLoad (lb/yr)(lb/yr)TMDL
Total Phosphorus 9,258 4,402 52
Sediment 13,702,749 6,099,322 55

   To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact: Daniel L. Alters, Water Programs Manager, Department of Environmental Protection, Water Management Program, 208 West Third Street--Suite 101, Williamsport, PA 17701-6448, Phone: (570) 327-0530 (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)--Email: Alters.Daniel@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. Please note that attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Please contact Jeff Gocek at 570-327-3665 or Email: Gocek.Jeffrey@dep.state.pa.us if you wish to attend.

   Written and Email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

North Branch Mahantango Creek Watershed

Snyder County

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) will hold a public meeting to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL for the North Branch Mahantango Creek Watershed in Snyder County. The meeting will be held on January 30, 2001 at 2 p.m. in the PADEP NorthCentral Regional Office, 208 West Third Street--Suite 101, Williamsport, PA 17701-6448. This TMDL is established in accordance with the requirements of Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Pennsylvania's 1996, 1998 and draft 2000 Section 303(d) lists included surface waters in the North Branch Mahantango Creek Watershed due to impairments caused by sedimentation and/or nutrients from agricultural land uses in the watershed.

   The Department currently does not have water quality criteria for sediment or nutrients. Therefore, the Department established water quality objectives for them using a reference watershed approach.

   The TMDL sets allowable loadings of sediment and phosphorus in the North Branch Mahantango Creek Watershed. Phosphorus was chosen as the TMDL endpoint for nutrient impairments because it is the limiting nutrient in this watershed. The sediment and phosphorus loadings were allocated among all land use categories in the watershed. Data used in establishing this TMDL were generated using a water quality analysis model (AVGWLF) designed by the Pennsylvania State University.

   The following table shows the existing sediment and phosphorus loadings for the impaired portion of the North Branch Mahantango Creek Watershed. Load reductions necessary in order to meet the TMDLs are also identified.


Stream Code Parameter Existing Load (lb/yr) TMDL Load (lb/yr) % Reduction to meet TMDL
17370 Total Phosphorus 1,807 1,414 22
Sediment 2,966,348 2,261,234 24

   The data and all supporting documentation used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact: Daniel L. Alters, Water Programs Manager, Department of Environmental Protection, Water Management Program, 208 West Third Street--Suite 101, Williamsport, PA 17701-6448, Phone: (570) 327-0530 (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)--Email: Alters.Daniel@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. Please note that at the current time, attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed.

   Please contact Mike Rivera at (570) 327-3689 or Email: Rivera.Michael@dep.state.pa.us if you wish to attend.

   Written and Email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Dutch Fork Lake

Washington County

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) will hold a public meeting to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL for Dutch Fork Lake in Washington County. The meeting will be held on January 24, 2001 at 6:30 p.m., at the Claysville Community Center, Main Street, Claysville, PA 15323. This TMDL is established in accordance with the requirements of Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Pennsylvania's 1996, 1998 and draft 2000 Section 303(d) lists included Dutch Fork Lake. The inclusion of this lake in these documents was due to use impairments caused by excessive nutrients loads to the lake from agricultural sources.

   The Department currently does not have water quality criteria for nutrients. Therefore, the Department established a water quality objective for nutrients. The water quality objective for phosphorus was established using the Trophic Status Index (TSI) rating system established by R. E. Carlson.

   The TDML set allowable loading rates for phosphorus for each land use category identified. The basis of information used in establishment of this TMDL is taken from a Lake Phosphorus Study and sampling conducted in 1987.

   The following table shows the current loading to the lake and the necessary reductions to meet the TMDL. The loads are expressed in pounds per year.

% Reduction
ExistingTMDL Loadto meet
ParameterLoad (lb/yr)(lb/yr)TMDL
Total Phosphorus 12,609 2,406 81

   The data and all supporting information used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact April Moore, Water Management, PA DEP, 400 Waterfront Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, (412) 442-5874, E-mail: moore.april@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. Please note that attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Persons planning to make a presentation at the public meeting should notify the Department no later than January 12, 2001 and any person wishing to attend the meeting should call April Moore at the above address.

   Written and Email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the EPA for approval.

Tributaries to Conodoguinet Creek

Cumberland and Franklin Counties

   The Department of Environmental Protection will hold a public meeting to discuss and accept comments on proposed TMDLs for the tributaries to Conodoguinet Creek in Cumberland and Franklin Counties. The meeting will be held on January 17, 2001 at 6:30 p.m. in the Carlisle Community Center. Please contact Bill Brown at (717) 783-2951, if you wish to attend. This TMDL is established in accordance with the requirements of Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Pennsylva- nia's 1996, 1998 and draft 2000 Section 303(d) lists included surface waters in these tributaries due to impairments caused by excessive sedimentation and/or nutrients from agricultural and/or urban land uses in the watershed.

   The Department currently does not have water quality criteria for sediments or nutrients. Therefore, the Department established water quality objectives for them using a reference watershed approach.

   The TMDL sets allowable loadings of sediment and phosphorus in the tributaries to Conodoguinet Creek. Phosphorus was chosen as the TMDL endpoint for nutrient impairments due to its being the limiting nutrient in this watershed. The sediment and phosphorus loadings were allocated among all land use categories present in the watershed. Data used in establishing this TMDL were generated using a water quality analysis model (AVGWLF) designed by the Pennsylvania State University.

   The following table shows the current sediment and phosphorus loadings and the TMDLs for the impaired tributaries to Conodoguinet Creek.


Existing LoadTMDL Load% Reduction to
Listed StreamPollutant(lb/yr)(lb/yr)meet TMDL
Alexanders Spring Creek Sediment 8,482,433 5,313,774 37
Bulls Head Branch & Green Spring Creek Phosphorus 13,754 9,768 29
Sediment 9,314,545 7,451,105 20
Center Creek & Back Creek Phosphorus 1,815 1,310 28
Sediment 1,370,464 953,578 30
Clippingers Run Phosphorus 1,395 923 34
Hogestown Run Phosphorus 9,855 6,419 35
Sediment 6,857,481 4,896,839 29
Mains Run & Gum Run Sediment 2,124,970 1,535,168 28
Middle Spring Creek Sediment 2,785,986 2,279,413 18
Mount Rock Spring Creek Phosphorus 14,673 8,958 39
Sediment 11,068,148 6,833,224 38
Newburg Run Phosphorus 1,523 1,183 22
Sediment 1,105,941 785,913 29
Paxton Run Sediment 1,556,321 1,061,721 32
Rowe Run Phosphorus 12,376 6,843 45
Sediment 8,283,209 5,220,286 37
Trindle Spring Run Sediment 5,890,754 4,839,711 18
Wertz Run Sediment 1,437,577 823,468 43
Unnamed Trib. 970729-1605-JLR Sediment 2,750,374 1,041,444 62
Unnamed Trib. 7403 Sediment 1,152,104 590,369 49

   To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact: Bill Brown, Water Quality Assessment and Standards Division, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, P. O. Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17120-8555, Phone: (717) 783-2951, e-mail: brown.bill@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. Please note attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed.

   Written comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Conneaut Lake

Crawford County

   The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is holding a public meeting on January 3, 2001 beginning at 1 p.m. at the Northwest Regional Office, 230 Chestnut Street, Meadville, PA to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Conneaut Lake was listed on Pennsylvania's 1996 Section 303(d) list because of use impairments due to excessive Total Suspended Solids and nutrient (Phosphorus) loads to the lake.

   The Department currently does not have water quality criteria for nutrients or suspended solids. Therefore, the Department established lake specific water quality objectives. The water quality objective for phosphorus is established using the Trophic Status Index (TSI) rating system established by Carlson. The water quality objectives for TSS in Conneaut Lake are set based on identifying and abating localized erosion problems.

   The TMDL sets an allowable Total Phosphorus loading rate for each significant contributor to Conneaut Lake. The basis of information used in establishment of this TMDL is the Phase One Clean Lakes Study completed by Coastal Environmental in 1994.

   The following table shows the current loading to the lake and the necessary reduction to meet the TMDL. The loads are expressed in pounds per year.

% reduction
ExistingTMDL Loadto meet
ParameterLoad (lb/yr)(lb/yr)TMDL
Total Phosphorus 7,715 4,630 40

   To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact: David G. Balog, Sanitary Engineer, Water Management Program, Northwest Regional Office, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, 230 Chestnut Street, Meadville, PA 16335, phone: (814) 332-6938, email: Balog.David@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. Please note that attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Please contact David Balog if you wish to attend.

   Written and Email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval.

Chickies Creek, Conewago Creek, Conowingo Creek, Muddy Run and Pequea Creek Watersheds

Dauphin, Lancaster and Lebanon Counties

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) will hold a public meeting to discuss and accept comments on proposed TMDLs for Chickies Creek, Conewago Creek, Conowingo Creek, Muddy Run, and Pequea Creek Watersheds in Dauphin, Lancaster and Lebanon Counties. The meeting will be held on January 25, 2001 at 7 p.m. in the main auditorium of the Farm and Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Rd., Lancaster, PA, 17601 beginning at 7 p.m. These TMDLs are established in accordance with the requirements of Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Pennsylvania's 1996,1998 and draft 2000 Section 303(d) lists included segments of these watersheds due to impairments caused by excessive nutrients, suspended solids and/or siltation from agricultural land uses in the watersheds.

   The Department currently does not have water quality criteria for siltation, suspended solids, or nutrients. Therefore, the Department established water quality objectives for them using a reference watershed approach.

   Phosphorus was chosen as the TMDL endpoint for nutrient impairments in all watersheds where it was identified as the limiting nutrient; in addition, nitrogen was addressed in Pequea Creek. The sediment and phosphorus loadings were allocated among all land use categories in the watersheds. Data used in establishing these TMDLs were generated using a water quality analysis model (AVGWLF) designed by the Pennsylvania State University.

   The following table shows the existing sediment and phosphorus loadings and load reductions necessary to meet the TMDLs for the watersheds. The Conewago Creek watershed is divided into two subbasins: Subbasin A extends from the Susquehanna River to the Rt. 743 crossing and Subbasin B extends from that point to the headwaters. Pequea Creek is also divided into two subbasins: Subbasin 1 extends from SR272 to Paradise and Subbasin 2, from Paradise to the headwaters.


Existing Load
Watershed Pollutant (lbs./yr.) TMDL (lbs./yr.) % Reduction
Chickies Creek Phosphorus 61,530 35,960 42
Sediment 26,093,711 7,374,850 72
Conewago Creek:
   Subbasin A Phosphorus 7,248 4,070 44%
Sediment 6,154,553 2,811,165 54%
   Subbasin B Phosphorus 12,997 3,447 73%
Sediment 8,783,921 2,381,149 73%
Conowingo Creek Phosphorus 52,400 19,400 63%
Sediment 27,300,000 20,400,000 25%
Muddy Run Phosphorus 17,147 9,959 42%
Sediment 7,460,637 3,974,141 47%
Pequea Creek:
   Subbasin 1 Phosphorus 83,600 35,500 58%
Nitrogen 745,000 646,000 13%
Sediment 42,600,000 7,270,000 83%
   Subbasin 2 Phosphorus 67,700 40,900 40%
Nitrogen 751,000 746,000 1%
Sediment 35,200,000 8,400,000 76%

   The data and all supporting documentation used to develop the proposed TMDLs are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact: Bill Brown, Water Quality Assessment and Standards Division, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, 400 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17105, Phone: (717) 783-2951, e-mail: Brown.Bill@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDLs can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. Please note that attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Any person wishing to attend the meeting should contact Bill Brown at the above addresses.

   Written and Email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Lake Carey

Wyoming County

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) will hold a public meeting to discuss and accept comments on a proposed TMDL for Lake Carey in Wyoming County. The meeting will be held on January 18, 2001 at 2 p.m. in the downstairs conference room in the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Building, Region III Office, Route 92 South, Tunkhannock, Pa., 18657. This TMDL is established in accordance with the requirements of Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Pennsylvania's 1996 and 1998 Section 303(d) lists included Lake Carey due to impairments caused by excessive nutrients from internal loading, failing septic systems, and agricultural land uses in the watershed.

   The Department currently does not have water quality criteria for nutrients. Therefore, the Department used a mathematical model developed by Reckhow to determine the current in-lake phosphorous concentration and loading. Phosphorus was chosen as the endpoint for nutrient impairment because it is the limiting nutrient in this lake. The TMDL target was chosen based on a Carlson Trophic Status Index (TSI) that would meet water quality objectives. The TMDL set allowable loadings of phosphorus in Lake Carey, which were allocated among all sources present in the watershed.

   The following table shows the existing phosphorus loading for Lake Carey. A load reduction necessary to meet the TMDL is also identified.

Existing LoadTMDL
Parameter (lbs/yr) (lbs/yr) % Reduction
Phosphorus 2,585 860 67

   The data and all supporting documentation used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact: Bill Brown, Water Quality Assessment and Standards Division, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, P. O. Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17120-8555, Phone: (717) 783-2951, Email: Brown.Bill@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDL can be accessed through the DEP Website (http://www.dep.state.pa.us) by typing ''TMDL'' in the direct link field, and clicking GO. Please note that attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed. Any person wishing to attend the meeting should contact Bill Brown at the above addresses.

   Written and Email comments will be accepted at the above addresses and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Virgin Run Lake

Fayette County

   The Department of Environmental Protection (Department) is holding a public meeting on January 24, 2001 beginning at 1 p.m., at the Southwest Regional Office's Waterfront Conference Room, Building 500, Waterfront Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, to discuss and accept comments on proposed TMDLs, established in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. Virgin Run Lake was listed on Pennsylvania's 1996, 1998 and draft 2000 Section 303(d) Lists because of impairments due to excess nutrient (Phosphorus) loads to the lake.

   The Department currently does not have water quality criteria for nutrients. Therefore, the Department established a water quality objective for them. The water quality objective for phosphorus was established using the Trophic Status Index (TSI) rating system established by Carlson.

   The TMDL sets an allowable loading rate for phosphorus for each land use category in the watershed. The basis of information used in establishment of this TMDL is a Eutrophication Lake Study done by the Department in 1986.

   The following table shows the current loading to the lake and the necessary reductions to meet the TMDL. The loads are expressed in pounds per year.


Summary of TMDL Based Reductions in Virgin Run Lake
Parameter Existing Load (lb/yr) TMDL Load (lb/yr) % reduction to meet TMDL
Total Phosphorus 585 397 32

   To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact: Tim Dreier, Water Programs Manager, Southwest Regional Office, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, 400 Waterfront Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15222-4745, Phone: (412) 442-4000, email: dreier.tim@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDL can be viewed and printed on the DEP Website, http://www.dep.state.pa.us, by typing the acronym TMDL in the direct link field, and clicking GO. Please note that attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail. Persons with a disability may use the AT&T Relay Service by calling (800) 654-5984 (TDD users) or (800) 654-5988 (voice users) and request that the call be relayed.

   Written comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001. Comments will not be accepted by facsimile or voice mail. The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

Buffalo Creek

   The Department of Environmental Protection will accept comments on the proposed TMDL, established in accordance with the requirements of section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. Water quality in Buffalo Creek was identified as impaired on the August 7, 1998, 303(d) List. The 305(b) Water Quality Assessment Summary, which serves as the basis for the 303(d) listing, established that the pollutant causing the impairment was total residual chlorine. It further identified Mifflinburg Municipal Authority sewage treatment plant (STP) as the source of the pollutant.

   Pennsylvania's Water Quality Standards criteria for Total Residual Chlorine (TRC) (Chapter 93 Water Quality Standards, Section 93.7) for Buffalo Creek is 0.011 mg/l as a 4-day average and 0.019 as a 1-hour average. Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) for the STP indicate TRC effluent concentrations as high as 1 ppm. The combination of TRC effluent concentrations and limited dilution in Buffalo Creek results in exceedance of water quality standards and the need for additional control, as evidenced by modeling results and stream investigations conducted by the Department.

   The TMDL applies to the segment of Buffalo Creek beginning at the STP Outfall 001 (RMI = 14.10) of Mifflinburg Municipal Authority's sewage treatment plant and extending 0.67 mile downstream.

   Theoretically the amount of TRC which must be reduced for the water body to meet water quality standards would be the lbs/day which caused this impairment, minus the value (calculated at 1.7 lbs/day) for which the stream can accept and not violate water quality standards. A margin of safety is incorporated into the calculations.

   This equation for the reduction required is:

lbs/day needing removal = lbs/day currently delivered -
lbs/day water body can receive

Or

= 11.7 lbs/day - 1.7 lbs/day = 10.0 lbs/day

   An implementation plan and schedule is included in the permittee's NPDES permit, which is regulated/monitored by the Department of Environmental Protection. The NPDES permit requires the permittee to meet a Total Residual Chlorine (TRC) limit of 0.06 mg/l with an effective date of 5/1/2001, as established on Page 2B of the permit. At this level, the required TRC removal will occur, and Water Quality standards will be met.

   The data and all supporting data used to develop the proposed TMDL are available from the Department. To request a copy of the proposed TMDL and an information sheet, contact: Daniel L. Alters, Water Programs Manager, Water Management Program, NorthCentral Regional Office, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, 208 West Third Street--Suite 101, Williamsport, PA 17701-6448, phone: (570) 327-0530, e-mail: Alters.Daniel@dep.state.pa.us.

   The TMDL can be viewed and printed from this Website. Please note that at the current time attachments and appendices must be requested through paper mail.

   Written comments will be accepted at the above address and must be received by February 13, 2001.

   Additionally, the Department will conduct a Public Meeting for interested parties to discuss this TMDL. The meeting will be held at 2 p.m. on December 29th, 2000 in the Northcentral Regional Office, Goddard Room, at the above noted address. Please contact Lynn Kyle, Permit Section (NorthCentral Regional Office) at 570-327-3681, if you wish to attend.

   The Department will consider all comments in developing the final TMDL, which will be submitted to EPA for approval.

JAMES M. SEIF,   
Secretary

[Pa.B. Doc. No. 00-2168. Filed for public inspection December 15, 2000, 9:00 a.m.]



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