Publication Summary

A Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) was initiated for the Union River for fecal coliform bacteria. Dry season concentrations higher than those in the wet season suggest that there is a continuous, steady component to the pollution loading. Since concentrations are relatively high during the wet season and flows are dramatically higher, there is also a storm-related component to the loading. Pollution sources in the basin are exclusively nonpoint. The predominant sources are likely agriculture, on-site disposal (septic) systems, and post-development activities attributable to urban development (e.g., domesticated animals). Fecal coliform loading capacity is established and load allocations are recommended.