Publication Summary

This is the study plan for the Lower White River pH nutrients study.

The White River, located in the Puget Sound basin in western Washington, originates from several glaciers on Mt. Rainier. The river flows westerly until emptying into the Puyallup River near Sumner, Washington.

In September and October of 1990, Ecology measured pH levels that did not meet (exceeded) water quality standards in the Lower White River at river mile 4.9, 6.3, and 8.0. These measurements were taken during a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) study conducted in the Puyallup River watershed. Subsequent monitoring, conducted from 1993-2001, documented continued exceedances of pH standards in the Lower White River.

Based on the pH exceedances, the White River was placed on Washington State′s Section 303(d) list of impaired waterbodies. The federal Clean Water Act of 1972 requires the state to (1) develop a water quality improvement report or TMDL, and (2) implement activities in the plan to bring these waterbodies back into compliance with standards.

Interested parties have done additional data collection and analysis in support of a TMDL; however, a TMDL has not yet been finalized. Recent improvements in wastewater treatment will likely result in reduced nutrient loads. In addition, changes in river flows due to changes in the management of withdrawals may increase the nutrient loading capacity. This study will provide additional information about the Lower White River and the effects of improved wastewater treatment.

Each study conducted by the Washington State Department of Ecology must have an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan. The plan describes the objectives of the study and the procedures to be followed to achieve those objectives. The primary goal of this study is to collect diurnal pH data at key locations along the Lower White River. After completion of the study, a final report describing the study results will be posted to the Internet.

Link to EIM data for User Study ID NMat0002