For several years, SRBC, under contract with the Pa. Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), has been assisting the agency to develop Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs). The national Clean Water Act requires states to assess streams and compile a list of streams that are polluted or impaired and not meeting their designated uses. All listed streams are required to have a TMDL.
A TMDL is the amount of pollutant loading that can enter a waterbody so the waterbody will be healthy and meet water quality standards. The maximum load is distributed among all sources in the watershed.
Most recently, in addition to TMDL work for the Wiconisco Watershed and the Clearfield Creek Watershed, SRBC is developing a TMDL report for the abandoned mine drainage (AMD) impaired reaches of the West Branch Susquehanna River Watershed in Cambria, Clearfield, Clinton and Lycoming Counties. The report will include water quality data, historical information to help describe the watershed and information regarding watershed restoration projects and plans.
The West Branch Susquehanna River was assessed in 1996 through 2004 and was found to have impaired segments. Portions of the watershed are polluted due to AMD and the stream does not meet its uses.
In mid-November, SRBC coordinated a kick-off meeting to obtain information from local interests. About 25 interested citizens attended this initial meeting. Once the report is drafted, a final public meeting will be held for public comment on the draft TMDL report.
For more information on the West Branch Susquehanna River Watershed TMDL development, contact Ms. Beth Dillon at 717-238-0426 ext 114 or by e-mail at bdillon@srbc.net.
