  |
|
|
What's
Being DoneProtecting the significant commercial and tribal shellfish harvest in Oakland Bay was an important consideration in beginning this water cleanup process. To protect shellfish harvest, salmon, and recreational use of area water bodies, Ecology and local partners began a cleanup process in the spring of 2003.
The first step of the process is a water quality study. Starting with an evaluation of existing water quality data, Ecology and the technical advisory group designed a study plan to fill information gaps. The plan for the bacteria study, called the Quality Assurance Project Plan or QAPP, has been completed. Field work for the study began in fall 2004. The plan for the temperature study is still being developed, and its field work is planned for the summer of 2005. The Squaxin Island Tribe will be conducting most of the field work for the temperature study.
The bacteria study will evaluate source areas for bacteria. It will calculate how much bacteria the water bodies can assimilate and still remain healthy, and how much sources need to be reduced. Because marine standards for bacteria are more stringent than freshwater standards, target concentration levels for tributaries will be calculated to protect marine waters. Recommendations for cleanup will be based on study findings.
The temperature study will evaluate sources of heat and cooling, determine how much heat the creeks can handle naturally, and make recommendations for returning water temperature to healthy levels.
Field work for the studies will be conducted through the Fall of 2005, followed by analysis and computer modeling of the data. We expect to finish reports on the studies during the summer or Fall of 2006. Ecology, members of the technical advisory group, and the public will use the study findings to develop detailed cleanup plans. Cleanup work will include continued monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment of cleanup strategies to achieve cleanup targets.
Contact us for more information
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
