Publication Summary

The Washington State Department of Ecology conducted a fecal coliform total maximum daily load assessment of Gibbons Creek in Clark County from September 1994 to January 1995. The intent of the study was to establish a nonpoint source loading capacity for fecal coliform bacteria, recommend load allocations for control of sources throughout the basin, and identify specific problem areas for follow-up action or continued study. Six sampling sites (two mainstem, two Campen Creek, and two unnamed tributaries) were sampled three times.

The Washington State Department of Ecology conducted a fecal coliform total maximum daily load assessment of Gibbons Creek in Clark County from September 1994 to January 1995. The intent of the study was to establish a nonpoint source loading capacity for fecal coliform bacteria, recommend load allocations for control of sources throughout the basin, and identify specific problem areas for follow-up action or continued study. Six sampling sites (two mainstem, two Campen Creek, and two unnamed tributaries) were sampled three times.

Study findings indicated that all sites violated at least one of the two parts of the water quality criteria for fecal coliform, while Campen Creek was in violation of both parts of the criteria. Load allocations, equal to the water quality criteria, are recommended for the mainstem Gibbons Creek and Campen Creek. Recommendations are made for additional fecal coliform source identification and monitoring throughout the Gibbons Creek watershed.