Publication Summary

Lake Ballinger was listed by the State of Washington under Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act for not providing beneficial uses such as fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities. Total phosphorus levels in the lake were identified as the potential problem.

The objective of this study was to determine if past restoration activities have been successful in restoring Lake Ballinger for its beneficial uses. This study found the total phosphorus levels for Lake Ballinger show restoration activities have been successful, and the lake is in compliance with established Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL; water cleanup plan) goals.

The Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) is required, under Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act, to (1) develop a list of impaired waters, (2) implement Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) studies for analysis of the pollutants, and (3) evaluate the effectiveness of the subsequent cleanup plans enacted to achieve the needed improvements in water quality.

Ecology listed Lake Ballinger (in Snohomish County) under Section 303(d) for non-attainment of beneficial uses based on a Phase III final lake restoration plan report. These beneficial uses included recreation, sport fishing, boating, and aesthetic enjoyment. The identified parameter of concern was total phosphorus.

Ecology submitted a TMDL (water cleanup plan) for Lake Ballinger, based on the Phase III report, to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). EPA approved the TMDL in 1993.

The objectives of this current study are to determine if (1) past restoration treatments have been effective in restoring Lake Ballinger to its designated uses, and (2) current phosphorus concentrations are consistent with the criterion set in the TMDL.

In November 2005, Ecology began a 12-month monitoring project to measure total phosphorus in Lake Ballinger. Evaluation of the data indicates the total phosphorus concentration was below the mean summer target limit of 30 µg/L set by the TMDL. The TMDL goal for total phosphorus at Lake Ballinger is currently being met. It appears restoration treatments have been effective in keeping phosphorus levels in Lake Ballinger from increasing over the TMDL target limit.

This report makes recommendations to help ensure phosphorus targets continue to be met. Recommendations include (1) lake and stormwater monitoring programs, (2) public education and outreach on fertilizer use and other activities that contribute nutrients to water, and (3) possible alum treatments as a short-term solution to internal lake phosphorus recycling.

Link to EIM data for User Study ID MBEL0002