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The Adopt-A-Stream Foundation 600-128th
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FAQ |
Why is the
Adopt-A-Stream Foundation targeting pollution in McAleer,Lyon and
North Creeks?
The impetus to correct pollution problems in these creeks is
driven by the fact that these watersheds are on the 1998 state
303(d) list for excessive levels of fecal coliform bacteria.
Fecal coliform bacteria, found in the waste of warm-blooded
animals, is a major concern. It indicates that people may be
exposed to a variety of harmful bacteria and viruses. AASF will
also address other identified water quality problems, including
turbidity, total suspended solids and pesticides.
These creeks are classified as Class AA waters in Washington's Water Quality Standards. "Class AA streams should be suitable for domestic, industrial, and agricultural water supply, stock watering; fish migration, rearing, spawning and harvest: wildlife habitat; and recreation (swimming, boating, fishing), and aesthetic enjoyment" (DOE,2005). At the current conditions, they are not suitable for recreational contact.
Who funds the
water quality projects in McAleer, Lyon and North Creeks?
The Adopt-A-Stream Foundation (AASF) received grant funding from
the state of Washington Department of Ecology (DOE) Clean Water
Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Fund for work in McAleer, Lyon
and North Creek Watersheds. The funding is available to assist
landowners with water quality problems, but landowners are
encouraged to contribute when possible. The contribution to the
project may be through in-kind donations (labor, materials,
equipment) or cash.
What is the 303
(d) List?
Every two years, Section 303 (d) of the federal Clean Water Act
requires states to submit a list of polluted waterbodies. If the
waterbodies don’t meet the minimum standards set by DOE for
certain parameters, then a total maximum daily load (TMDL) must
be developed. “A TMDL is the amount of pollutant loading
that can occur in a given waterbody (river, marine water,
wetland, stream, or lake) and still meet water quality
standards” (DOE, 2005). Both McAleer and Lyon Creeks need
the state to develop TMDL’s, or water clean up plans.
What types of projects are eligible?
AASF will also be working with private landowners to correct
identified water quality problems, such as eroding streambanks,
degraded riparian conditions and direct outfalls to streams. AASF
will also help educate property owners about septic system care
and maintenance, and proper pet waste disposal. AASF will educate
the public about the water quality issues related to McAleer and
Lyon by coordinating educational forums within the basins,
informational mailings, direct delivery of educational materials
and technical assistance.
Please contact Tom Hardy
at (425) 316-8592 or tomh@streamkeeper.org if you have identified pollution
problems on your property or are interested in participating in
the project.
Some helpful website links to the Department of Ecology’s
website regarding the 303 (d) list:
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/links/impaired_wtrs.html
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/303d/1998/wrias/wria8.pdf
Other Resources - Educate
Yourself!