Fecal Bacteria Source Identification and Tidal Circulation/Source Abatement Study
Summary
SCH Number
2002108315
Public Agency
Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 1 (North Coast), Santa Rosa
Document Title
Fecal Bacteria Source Identification and Tidal Circulation/Source Abatement Study
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
10/21/2002
Document Description
The project would involve releasing a small quantity of a commonly used chemical dye-tracer, Rhodamine-WT, into Bodega Harbor at specific locations and times within, and near the mouth of, the harbor. The movement and dispersion would be tracked from boats by on-site fluorometers. The quantity of dye released would result in low-level concentrations not toxic to aquatic life and below maximum levels recommended for drinking water sources. Tidal currents will disperse the dye over a period of roughly six hours. Data gathered from the study will yield information on travel times, current velocity, and dispersion rates for the surface waters in and near the harbor. The information will assist in identifying bacterial contamination sources and control measures to reduce the health threat from contamination.
Contact Information
Name
Robert Klamt
Agency Name
Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 1 (North Coast), Sa
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Location
Counties
Sonoma
Other Location Info
Bodega Harbor
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Class 6, Section 15306
Reasons for Exemption
The study is a basic data collection and resource evaluation activity. Dye concentrations will be below levels toxic to aquatic life. They will not exceed the levels recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for drinking water supplies, which are more stringent than necessary because Bodega Harbor is not a drinking water source. Accordingly, the project would not result in a serious or major disturbance to an environmental resource and, as such, is categorically exempt from CEQA under Class 6, Title 14, California Code of Regulations, Section 15306.
Disclaimer: The document was originally posted before CEQAnet had the capability to host attachments for the public. To obtain the original attachments for this document, please contact the lead agency at the contact information listed above. You may also contact the OPR via email at state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov or via phone at (916) 445-0613.