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BIG BEAR LAKE WATERSHED-WIDE

NUTRIENT TMDL MONITORING

QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN

PLAN PREPARED BY:

Brown and Caldwell

December 30, 2009

Refer correspondence to: Nancy Gardiner

Brown and Caldwell 9665 Chesapeake Drive San Diego, CA 92123

(858) 514-8822 [email protected]

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009

1. Approval Signatures

PROJECT ORGANIZATION:

Title: Name: Signature: Date*: BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Lead Agency, SAWPA

Rick Whetsel

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Member, Big Bear Municipal Water District

Scott Heule

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force, City of Big Bear Lake

David Lawrence

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force, San Bernardino County Flood Control District

Matt Yeager

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force, California Department of Transportation

Cathy Jochai

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force, Big Bear Mountain Resorts

Karl Klouzer

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force, US Forest Service

Robert Taylor

Consultant to BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force, Risk Sciences

Tim Moore

Monitoring Consultant to BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force

Nancy Gardiner

REGIONAL BOARD:

Title: Name: Signature: Date*: Advisor, BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Hope Smythe

Advisor, BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Heather Boyd

Declaration: The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the SWRCB, nor does mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.


2. TABLE OF CONTENTS Page:

Group A Elements: Project Management ....................................................................................2 1. Title and Approval Sheets........................................................................................................2 2. Table of Contents.....................................................................................................................3 3. Distribution List ........................................................................................................................6 4. Project/Task Organization........................................................................................................7 5. Problem Definition/Background .............................................................................................13 6. Project/Task Description ........................................................................................................23 7. Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement Data..........................................................32 8. Special Training Needs/Certification......................................................................................45 9. Documents And Records .......................................................................................................46 Group B: Data Generation and Acquisition................................................................................49 10. Sampling Process Design....................................................................................................49 11. Sampling Methods ...............................................................................................................52 12. Sample Handling and Custody ............................................................................................58 13. Analytical Methods...............................................................................................................62 14. Quality Control .....................................................................................................................66 15. Instrument/Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance .............................................72 16. Instrument/Equipment Calibration and Frequency...............................................................74 17. Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies and Consumables ........................................................75 18. Non-Direct Measurements (Existing Data) ..........................................................................76 19. Data Management ...............................................................................................................78 Group C: Assessment and Oversight ........................................................................................79 20. Assessments & Response Actions ......................................................................................79 21. Reports to Management ......................................................................................................81 Group D: Data Validation and Usability ......................................................................................83 22. Data Review, Verification, and Validation Requirements.....................................................83 23. Verification and Validation Methods.....................................................................................85 24. Reconciliation with User Requirements ...............................................................................87

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 LIST OF TABLES 4-1. Personnel Responsibilities 6-1. Summary of Monitoring Design for Tributary Water Quality Parameters 6-2. Monitoring-Specific Project Schedule 7-1. Data Quality Objectives for Conventional Water Quality Parameters 7-2. Data Quality Objectives for Nutrients 11-1. Water Quality Sampling Locations, Parameters, & SOPs 11-2. Water Quality Sample Container, Preservation, & Holding Time Requirements 13-1. Analytical Methods for Water Quality Parameters (Field and Laboratory) 14-1. Sampling and Analytical Quality Control Requirements for Water Quality 15-1. Inspection and Maintenance Schedule (Field Equipment) 16-1. Instrument Calibration and Frequency 21-1. Reports 23-1. Inputs to Data Verification and Validation LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix 1 Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring Plan Appendix 2 Field Standard Operating Procedures LIST OF STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Form BBMWD11-4, Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide TMDL Water Quality Sampling SOP Form BBMWD15-1, Horiba U-10 Meter Maintenance SOP and Record Form Form BBMWD16-1, Horiba U10 Meter Calibration SOP and Record Form


3. DISTRIBUTION LIST

Title: Name (Affiliation): Tel. No.: QAPP No*:

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Lead Agency

Rick Whetsel (SAWPA) (951) 354-4222

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Member

Scott Heule (Big Bear Municipal Water District) (909) 866-5796


David Lawrence (City of Big Bear Lake)

(909) 866-5831 x198


Matt Yeager (San Bernardino County Flood Control District)

(909) 387-8112

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Cathy Jochai (California Department of Transportation)

(909) 383-4948

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Karl Klouzer (Big Bear Mountain Resorts)

(909) 866-5766 x124

BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force Robert Taylor (US Forest Service)

(909) 382-2660

Consultant to BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force

Tim Moore (Risk Sciences) (615) 370-1655

Monitoring Consultant to BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force

Nancy Gardiner (Brown and Caldwell)

(858) 571-6742

Advisor to BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force

Hope Smythe (Regional Board)

(951) 782-4493

Advisor to BBL Nutrient TMDL Task Force

Heather Boyd (Regional Board)

(951) 320-2006


4. PROJECT /TASK ORGANIZATION 4.1 Involved Project Parties Brown and Caldwell will serve as the lead contractor for the proposed project. The proposed project consists of tributary water quality sampling in 7 creeks discharging into Big Bear Lake. Project goals and associated Data Quality Objectives (DQO), Measurement Quality Objectives (MQO), and Data Quality Indicators (DQI) are discussed in the Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL Watershed-wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring Plan (MP). The MP also addresses tributary nutrient and supporting water quality sampling as well as flow monitoring. Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL Task Force (Task Force)—This is a Task Force established by several agencies to address specific watershed (in this case Big Bear Lake and its tributaries) Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) requirements and improve water quality in Big Bear Lake. The Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA) serves as the lead agency and administrator on behalf of the Task Force. Task Force meetings are held at the San Bernardino Flood Control or Big Bear Municipal Water District offices approximately bimonthly. At these meetings, the Big Bear Lake stakeholders and Regional Water Quality Control Board staff are provided with an update of TMDL-related data collection and analyses efforts. Mr. Timothy F. Moore of Risk Sciences serves as a general consultant/advisor to the Task Force, and Ms. Nancy Gardiner of Brown and Caldwell participates as the Monitoring Consultant to the Task Force. The Task Force stakeholders consist of the following entities:

• Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA); • Big Bear Municipal Water District; • City of Big Bear Lake; • San Bernardino County Flood Control District; • The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans); • Big Bear Mountain Resorts; • United States Department of Agriculture (Forest Service); • The Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board; and • Consultants.

The Task Force is responsible for overseeing the work performed by its Consultants and for reviewing and determining whether the deliverables are acceptable. In July and August 2009, a number of local staff from agencies in the Big Bear Lake area received training in proper sampling methods. These individuals may assist in performing water quality sampling as required for this project. A list of the main project personnel and their contact information is provided in Table 4-1.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 Table 4-1 Responsible Personnel

Name Organizational Affiliation

Title Contact Information (Telephone number, fax number, email address.)

Rick Whetsel SAWPA Watershed Planner (951) 354-4222; [email protected]

Scott Heule Big Bear Municipal Water District

General Manager (909) 866-5796; [email protected]

David Lawrence City of Big Bear Lake Director of Public Works/City Engineer

(909) 866-5831 x198; [email protected]

Matt Yeager San Bernardino County Flood Control District

Stormwater Program Manager

(909) 387-8112; [email protected]

Cathy Jochai California Department of Transportation

District NPDES Coordinator


Karl Klouzer Big Bear Mountain Resorts

Mountain Manager (909) 866-5766 x124; [email protected]

Robert Taylor US Forest Service Forest Hydrologist (909) 382-2660; [email protected] More Risk Sciences Consultant (615) 370-1655; tmoore@risk-

sciences.com

Nancy Gardiner Brown and Caldwell Monitoring Consultant


Hope Smythe Regional Board Chief of Basin Planning, Inland Waters


Heather Boyd Regional Board Environmental Scientist


Dan Ower Bear Mountain Sampler Trainee [email protected] Dan Nielsen Bear Mountain Sampler Trainee [email protected] H.J. Ferguson Bear Mountain Sampler Trainee P.O. Box 132401 Big Bear Lake,

CA 92315 Dave Wyman Bear Mountain Sampler Trainee P.O. Box 6280 Big Bear Lake, CA

92315 Will Kuo Caltrans Sampler Trainee [email protected] Joe Cylwik City of Big Bear Lake Sampler Trainee [email protected] Harry Babbitt City of Big Bear Lake Sampler Trainee [email protected] Raul Briseno San Bernardino County

Flood Control District Sampler Trainee [email protected]

Manny Martinez San Bernardino County Flood Control District

Sampler Trainee [email protected]

Ron Vandergoot San Bernardino County Flood Control District

Sampler Trainee [email protected]

Jeff Gill Snow Summit Sampler Trainee [email protected] Chris Winslow Snow Summit Sampler Trainee [email protected] Mikaila Rimbenieks US Forest Service Sampler Trainee [email protected] Pawlowski US Forest Service Sampler Trainee [email protected]

4.2 Project Roles of Identified Parties Ms. Nancy Gardiner is Brown and Caldwell’s Project Manager for this project. She will conduct the training of prospective field monitoring staff and oversee the progress and technical direction

mailto:[email protected]

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 of the monitoring. She also serves as a liaison between the Task Force, and the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board). Specific tasks of the Project Manager are listed as follows:

1. Develop training materials and give at least one training session to program participants, focusing on monitoring methods, proper sample handling, QA/QC procedures, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), laboratory interface, data management, and reporting.

2. Review data on a quarterly basis. All field and laboratory data in raw form, as well as any data that have been entered into a database or summarized and reviewed by the Project Manager, will be examined. “Data verification” and identification of any problems or corrective actions will be coordinated between the Project Manager and the Regional Board. Notification will be provided to the Task Force.

3. Assess field activities and data analyses on a quarterly basis. The Brown and Caldwell Project Manager will be present during part of at least one day of field activities, one day of data analysis activities (and equipment maintenance activities), and one day of laboratory activities. The Regional Board staff may be included.

4. Submit a QA/QC summary, which will include checklist items, when data are submitted. 5. Validate data and ensure that data validation occurs as soon as possible throughout the

program, working with the Regional Board’s staff as needed. 6. Prepare a Final QA Report for the program. This report will summarize all previously

prepared QA/QC reports. It will also contain sections on identification of needed changes for future monitoring programs or activities to improve QA/QC, as well as any other related recommendations.

Mr. Greg Cole (Brown and Caldwell) is the Project QA/QC Officer. He will be responsible for providing review of data and oversight of the analytical laboratory. Ms. Heather Boyd is the lead for the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board for this effort. She will review and comment on the deliverables associated with this effort in terms of their compliance with the Monitoring Plan (MP), Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP), and the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Plan (SWAMP), and will approve task deliverables and work products that do not require Board approval.


5. PROBLEM DEFINITION/BACKGROUND

5.1 Problem Statement Big Bear Lake is listed on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 303(d) list of impaired water bodies. Historical water quality data indicated that the lake is impaired for nutrients, sediments, pathogens, and trace metals. Beneficial uses in the lake, particularly recreation and aquatic habitat, were considered impaired by these pollutants as well as the spread of noxious and nuisance aquatic plants (Eurasian Water Milfoil and Coontail). Immediately after Big Bear Lake was added to the 303(d) list, the Regional Board initiated a program to develop and implement Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) for nutrients. A Task Force of local stakeholders was formed to support the Regional Board's effort. Because the watershed experienced a significant drought during the time period in which the data were collected for TMDL development, some major tributaries to the lake did not have sufficient flow frequently enough to be reliably sampled for all hydrological conditions. The absence of tributary water quality, flow and sediment data created significant data gaps for the TMDL development process. In addition, modeling efforts for the development of the nutrient TMDL identified areas in which data were not adequate. The Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL was developed for dry hydrological conditions. 5.2 Decisions or Outcomes In the TMDL, the Regional Board set forth four specific objectives for the Watershed-Wide Monitoring Plan: 1. To review and update the Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL. 2. To determine specific sources of nutrients. 3. To develop TMDLs for other hydrologic conditions (wet & moderate years). 4. To determine compliance with the Big Bear Lake Dry Nutrient TMDL, including the load and

waste load allocations. With respect to monitoring and data collection activities, the main purpose of this project is to fill the data gaps previously identified and to provide a substantial amount of the data required to support TMDL implementation. These data gaps include tributary water quality and flow data. Water quality samples and corresponding flow measurements near the mouths of major tributaries to Big Bear Lake are needed to obtain estimates of nutrient loads and flows over time. These data are needed in order to better calibrate a nutrient watershed model being developed by TetraTech, Inc. A parallel effort designed to collect water column and sediment quality data from within Big Bear Lake itself is being conducted by the Big Bear Municipal Water District and is addressed in a separate QAPP. 5.3 Water Quality or Regulatory Criteria According to the Water Quality Control Plan for the Santa Ana River Basin (“Basin Plan,” Regional Water Quality Control Board, 1995), the listed beneficial uses for Big Bear Lake are: MUN, AGR, GWR, REC1, REC2, WARM COLD, WILD, and RARE. The first three uses relate to potable and agricultural water supply and groundwater recharge. Recreational uses include

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 direct contact, such as swimming and fishing, and secondary contact, such as boating or water-skiing. The warm and cold designations refer to aquatic habitat for a variety of fish, invertebrates, vegetation, and wildlife. Wild and rare indicate supporting habitat for certain species. The Regional Board identified Big Bear Lake as impaired due to excessive nutrients and noxious aquatic plants. Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act (CWA) requires States to identify waters that do not or are not expected to meet water quality standards (beneficial uses, water quality objectives, and the anti-degradation policy) with technology-based controls. The States are then required to develop a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for each of the constituents included on the 303(d) list. The TMDL establishes the maximum daily load for a pollutant that can enter the listed water body without degradation of the water body’s beneficial uses. A TMDL is defined as the sum of the individual wasteload allocations (WLAs) for point sources and load allocations (LAs) for non-point sources including natural background, and must include a margin of safety. Seasonal variations and other factors must also be considered. The importance and the utility of the data collected under this QAPP and associated Monitoring Plan (MP) is provided below: 1) The MP provides for consistent and seasonal sampling of traditional water quality parameters and nutrients within tributaries of Big Bear Lake. These data will ultimately be used to determine specific sources of nutrients and to develop TMDLs for other hydrological conditions. Data to be collected and analyzed shall address, at a minimum, determination of compliance with the phosphorus dry condition TMDL, including the WLAs and LAs, and with the existing total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) objective. The data will also be used to better calibrate Tetra Tech’s nutrient loading model. The results from sampling of traditional parameters, such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity, may then be used for future lake modeling efforts. In addition, the findings may also be compared to the Basin Plan objectives for these constituents for inland waters. Basin Plan Objectives for Inland Waters Parameter Existing WQO (Water Quality Control Plan –Santa

Ana River Basin -1995 and updated in 2008) Hardness 125 mg/L DO COLD BU: >6mg/L pH 6.5-8.5 s.u. Temperature COLD BU: Increase of no more than 5oF WARM BU: Not greater than 90oF – June through

October or above 78oF during the rest of the year. Turbidity Maximum increase no greater than 20% for

controllable water quality factors NO3-N 10 mg/L The MP, which covers tributary water quality sampling and tributary flow monitoring will be used to characterize the water quality status of tributaries (in a comparative sense) as well as provide information for future modeling efforts.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 5.4 Intended Usage of Data The data will be used by the Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL Task Force and the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) for the purposes described in Section 5.2 and Section 5.3 above. The data collected will assist with further watershed and lake water quality characterization, lake improvement assessments, as well as TMDL implementation efforts. Data evaluations and assessments will be useful in providing information for watershed management and pollution prevention. The data may be made available to the regulatory and resource management agencies. Data will be compiled and maintained by SAWPA on behalf of the Task Force. The information will be shared with the State Water Quality Control Board, the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board, TMDL Task Force Members, and upon request, to other agencies. Water quality data from Big Bear Lake and from selected tributaries will be entered into the Big Bear Lake Water Quality Database (BBLWQDB). Ultimately, the BBLWQDB will have an export format that is compatible for importing the data into the SWAMP input data format.


6. PROJECT TASK DESCRIPTION

6.1 Work Statement and Produced Products In the TMDL, the Regional Board set forth four specific objectives for the Watershed-Wide Monitoring effort: 1. To review and update the Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL. 2. To determine specific sources of nutrients. 3. To develop TMDLs for other hydrologic conditions (wet & moderate years). 4. To determine compliance with the Big Bear Lake Dry Nutrient TMDL, including the load

and waste load allocations. Over the last few years, with considerable support from state and federal grant funds, local stakeholders conducted studies, including comprehensive monitoring programs of the watershed and the lake itself. A large database of water quality information was created as part of these studies. The MP is intended to continue and enhance existing datasets to characterize water quality in the runoff draining to Big Bear Lake. Specific products to be generated as a result of these efforts will include:

Field data sheets Field notes Photodocumentation Laboratory analytical reports Chain-of-Custody forms Instrument calibration records

One reason additional research is necessary is that, over the last few years, local stakeholders have implemented several new projects designed to improve water quality in Big Bear Lake. It is important to confirm and quantify the effect of these remediation efforts in order to determine what additional steps must be taken to ensure long term protection of the lake. For example, the deep water aeration systems installed in the lake could improve dissolved oxygen levels and installation of sediment trapping basins could reduce turbidity levels in the lake. Implementation of best management practices upstream in the watershed may provide future benefits for improvements to tributary water quality as well. To date, this Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) applies only to the watershed-wide nutrient TMDL monitoring efforts for which a MP and Standard Operating Procedures have been developed and approved.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 6.2 Constituents Monitored and Frequency of Monitoring The following water quality and flow data collection efforts will be performed during the Big Bear Lake Watershed-wide Nutrient TMDL monitoring program.

o Tributary monitoring will include a standardized approach for tributary water

quality data sampling, as well as introduce better methods to assess tributary flow. Nutrient monitoring will be conducted in Rathbun Creek (2 locations), Summit Creek, Grout Creek, Knickerbocker Creek, and Boulder Creek. In addition, sampling may be conducted at the Bear Creek outlet (dam outlet) in the future. However, Caltrans is currently conducting a bridge construction project that prevents access to this site until at least June 2011.

o Water quality samples will be analyzed for the constituents and parameters summarized in Table 6-1. Sampling frequencies will be determined based on tributary flow status.

Table 6-1 summarizes the physical and chemical parameters to be measured, whether the samples will be analyzed by the sampling team or sampled for later analysis by a professional lab, and the minimum frequency of measurements. Table 6-1 Summary of Monitoring Design for Tributary Water Quality Samples

Parameter Type of Monitoring Frequency of Monitoring Water Temperature

Field Measurement– F 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Dissolved Oxygen

Field Measurement – F 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

pH Field Measurement – F 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Conductivity Field Measurement – F 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Turbidity (field) Field Measurement – F 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Total Nitrogen Professional Lab – P 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Total Dissolved Nitrogen

Professional Lab – P 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Ammonia-N Professional Lab – P 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Nitrate-Nitrite-N Professional Lab – P 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Total Phosphorus Professional Lab – P 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1


Winter Storm Total Dissolved Phosphorus


Orthophosphate-P


Total Suspended Solids


Volatile Suspended Solids


Total Alkalinity Professional Lab – P 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Total Hardness Professional Lab – P 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)


Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)


Total Organic Carbon (TOC)


Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC)


This QAAP addresses the analytical data quality objectives for the majority of water quality parameters that will be analyzed. The approach for collecting and analyzing the chemical and physical parameters are described in detail in the approved Monitoring Plan. 6.3 Project Monitoring Timetable Table 6-2 identifies the schedule of major activities associated with this project: Table 6-2 Sampling-Related Project Schedule

Monitoring Activities Start Date Completion

Date

Tributary Monitoring Plan 4/1/09 5/22/09

Baseline and Snowmelt Sampling for Conventional and Nutrient Water Quality

7/1/09 Monthly, as required for

compliance with the TMDL


Storm Event Sampling for Conventional and Nutrient Water Quality

7/1/09 Twice per year, as required for

compliance with the TMDL

6.4 Geographical Setting The geographical locations studied include Big Bear Lake as well as the entire Big Bear Lake watershed with special focus on several of its main tributaries. Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains, San Bernardino County, California. Big Bear Lake was originally created in 1884-1885 as a water supply reservoir, when a dam at the western end of the lake was constructed (Bear Valley Dam; N34°14.52’ latitude and W116°58.62’ longitude). Beginning in 1911, the lake was increased to a size of approximately 2,900 acres. At full capacity, the average water depth is 24 ft (8 m), while the maximum water depth near the dam is 72 ft (24 m). Water stored in the eastern end of the lake is significantly shallower than water stored near the dam. Vertical profile data indicate that Big Bear Lake is a polymictic lake with many mixing periods throughout the year. Despite its polymictic nature, weak thermal stratification is observed on occasion that can result in low dissolved oxygen concentrations immediately above the sediment-water interface. The lake is a tributary to the Santa Ana River with controlled releases that provide downstream fish habitat and irrigation water. The Big Bear Lake drainage basin encompasses approximately 38.5 square miles and is drained by more than 10 streams. Local stream runoff and precipitation on the lake are the water supply inputs to Big Bear Lake. Twelve percent of Big Bear Lake's drainage basin consists of the lake itself (Pearson and Irwin, 1972). Due to a strong rain shadow effect, precipitation varies greatly within the Big Bear Lake watershed. The west end of the watershed (near the dam) typically receives an average of 36 to 38 inches per year while at the east end of the lake receives an average of 12 inches. In the TMDL, the Regional Board specified six mandatory sampling stations: one each on the major tributaries to Big Bear Lake (Grout Creek, Summit Creek, Knickerbocker Creek and Boulder Creek) and two on Rathbun Creek. A seventh tributary (Bear Creek) is actually an outlet from the lake below the dam. While this location may be sampled in the future, the site is currently inaccessible to a Caltrans bridge construction project that will last until at least June 2011. A map showing the sampling locations is provided below on Figure 6-1, and details regarding the sampling locations, including GPS coordinates, are described in Table 6-1.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 Figure 6-1. Sampling Locations in Big Bear Lake Watershed

Table 6-1 Water Quality and Sediment Sampling Locations, Parameters, & SOPs Sampling Location

Location ID Number GPS Coordinates Matrix Parameters Sampling Schedule Sampling

SOPs

Rathbun Creek (@ Sandlewood Drive)

801MWDC04 Lat. 34.2531 Long. -116.887354 Water

Temp., DO, pH, conductivity, turbidity, TN, TDN, NH3-N, NO3+NO2, TP, TDP, Ortho-P, BOD, COD, DOC, Hardness, Alkalinity, TSS, VSS, Flow

12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

Form 11-4

Rathbun Creek (Below Zoo)

Input SWAMP station id nomenclature

TBD Water



Form 11-4

Grout Creek (@ Highway 38) 801MWDC03 Lat. 34.269447

Long. -116.948437 Water



Form 11-4

West Summit Creek (@ Swan Drive)

801MWDC05 Lat. 34.248679 Long. -116.893777

Water

Temp., DO, pH, conductivity, turbidity, TN, TDN, NH3-N, NO3+NO2, TP, TDP, Ortho-P, Hardness, Alkalinity, TSS, VSS, Flow


Form 11-4




SOPs

Knickerbocker Creek (@ Highway 18)




Form 11-4

Boulder Bay Creek (@ Highway 18)




Form 11-4

Bear Creek (Dam Outlet)* 801MWDC02 Lat. 34.242056

Long. -116.977056 Water Temp., DO, pH, conductivity, turbidity, TN, TDN, NH3-N, NO3+NO2, TP, TDP, Ortho-P, Hardness, Alkalinity, Flow


Form 11-4

* This site is currently inaccessible through at least June 2011 due to a Caltrans bridge construction project. 6.5 Constraints For water quality indicator sampling activities, the constraints are (1) health and safety of the samplers, (2) site accessibility, and (3) a requirement that samples must be delivered to the analytical laboratory within 48 hours after sample collection. Each of these constraints will be addressed systematically to unsure the health and safety of sampling crews and the quality of data obtained in the field, as described below. Health and Safety All sampling personnel will be trained in proper field sampling methods and sampling health and safety. In addition, a project-specific Health & Safety Plan will be prepared and will be brought to the field by sampling staff. Storm events that occur after business hours or on the weekends will not be sampled due to safety issues and manpower constraints. Flash floods occur frequently in mountain streams during rain storms, creating hazardous sampling conditions. While every effort will be made to collect all samples as required by the Regional Board, at no time will stakeholders allow sampling personnel to take undue risk to fulfill this obligation. Site Inaccessibility Some conditions may render a site inaccessible. Sampling protocols or locations may need to be modified if a site becomes inaccessible. Procedures for various circumstances of inaccessibility are described below. 1. If it would be dangerous to approach the stream during a sampling event due to swift water

or other hazardous conditions, it is considered inaccessible. In this event, the sampling team will delay sampling for 24 hours up to 48 hours after the storm event (as determined by protocol in section 4.8). Alternatively, if a bridge is available from which to conduct sampling, sampling will occur on schedule at that location from the bridge. In the event that a site is considered inaccessible, the field team will take photographs as documentation of the site condition.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 2. If access to a sampling site is temporarily or permanently blocked by a physical obstruction,

such as downed trees or evidence of land- or rockslide, or ice or snow, the sampling team may move 25-50 ft. upstream or downstream from the site and conduct sampling there. If there still is no suitable access, the project team may sample further away (up to 100 ft.) from the original station, with the approval of the project manager.

3. If the sampling site comes under new ownership, such that previously granted access is now denied, permission will be obtained from the new owner. If this is still denied, a permanent new location will be selected as near as possible to the original station, ideally within 1,000 feet, and not in a morphologically different stream reach.

Sample Holding TimesTo ensure the 48-hour holding time is met, samples shall be delivered directly to the analytical laboratory by Brown and Caldwell or other trained sampling staff, or by a qualified courier service. For routine baseline and snowmelt sampling, samples will be delivered on the sample day they are collected. For storm events (which may last longer than one day), samples will be delivered to the laboratory within each consecutive 24-hour period throughout the duration of the storm event.


7. QUALITY OBJECTIVES AND CRITERIA

This section identifies the DQOs, MQOs, and DQIs for the monitoring elements associated with this project. Where monitoring is performed for purposes of initial characterization, the DQOs for sampling efforts will be established based on the default DQIs and MQOs recommended in the SWAMP guidance document (See Tables 7.1 – Table 7.5). The DQO Statements, MQO Statement, and DQI for the tributary water quality and flow data monitoring are as follows: As described above, tributary nutrient monitoring efforts will be conducted near the mouths of tributaries draining into Big Bear Lake, including Rathbun Creek (2 locations), Summit Creek, Grout Creek, Knickerbocker Creek, and Boulder Creek.

o The tributary nutrient monitoring efforts consist of the collection and analyses of discrete manual grab (IMG) samples or alternatively, samples may be collected using automated sampling equipment. In the event that automated equipment is used, the samplers shall be configured with multiple collection bottles and programmed such that discrete samples (not composite) shall be collected.

o In order to ensure that a reasonable number of tributary water quality samples are collected for seasonal flow regimes, the following sample number target goals have been established:

Baseline Flow: Monthly samples from each applicable tributary (includes visual documentation when flow is absent).

Snow Melt Flow: Four monthly samples from each applicable tributary (once a month between February and May when representative flow is present).

Storm Event Flow: Sample two separate storm events (one summer storm and one winter storm) and collect approximately eight samples from each event over the hydrograph. Per the approved Monitoring Plan, storms with an estimated (forecasted) rainfall of greater than 0.5 inches within 24 hours will be selected for sampling.

The project MQOs/DQIs for Completeness, Sensitivity, Precision, and Accuracy for analytical methods have been established in accordance with the SWAMP guidelines and are sufficient for the characterization of nutrient levels in tributaries. Tables 7-1 and 7-2 of this section establish how accurate, precise, complete, comparable, sensitive and representative project data will need to be. These DQOs were derived by reviewing: 1) the SWAMP guidance document, 2) the specifications of the instruments and methods to be employed, and 3) the application and utility of the data. As previously stated, the majority of project efforts are designed to provide either continued characterization of environmental conditions or an initial characterization of environmental conditions. Specifically, the data quality objectives for this project will consist of the following:

• Field Measurements: Accuracy, Precision, Completeness (Table 7-1) • Nutrient Water Quality Analyses: Accuracy, Precision, Recovery, Completeness

(Table 7-2)


Table 7-1 Data Quality Objectives for Conventional Water Quality Parameters (Field Monitoring*) Parameter Principle Units Range TRL Accuracy Precision Recovery Completeness

Temperature Thermistor Degrees Celsius

(oC) 0 – 50 oC N/A +/- 0.1 oC

No SWAMP requirement; will use + 0.5

or 5% N/A

No SWAMP requirement; will use 100%

Dissolved Oxygen

Membrane/ galvanic cell mg/L 0 – 19.9 0.2 +/- 0.1 mg/L


or 10% N/A


pH Glass Electrode s.u. 0 – 14.0 N/A +/-0.1 s.u.


or 5% N/A


Conductivity Alternating four-electrode uS/cm 0 - 100 2 +/-1 uS/cm

No SWAMP requirement; will use + 5%

N/A No SWAMP requirement; will use 100%

Turbidity Scattering/ transmitting

light NTUs 0 - 800 5

No SWAMP Requirement;

will use + 10% or 0.1, whichever is greater

No SWAMP requirement;

will use + 10% or 0.1, whichever is

greater

N/A No SWAMP requirement; will use 100%

*Equipment is Horiba U-10 meter or equivalent

Table 7-2 Data Quality Objectives for Water Quality Analyses (Laboratory) Parameter Method Units MDL/ TRL Accuracy Precision Recovery Completeness

Total Nitrogen SM 4500 mg/L 0.04/0.1 Standard Ref. within 95% CI

Laboratory duplicate 25%

RPD

Matrix Spike 80 -120% 100%

Total Dissolved Nitrogen SM 4500 mg/L 0.04/0.1 Standard Ref.

within 95% CI Laboratory

duplicate 25% RPD


Ammonia Nitrogen

SM 4500 NH3N, 10-107-06-3-D mg/L 0.03/0.01 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% RPD


Nitrate-Nitrite Nitrogen

SM 4500 N02B EPA 300.0,

10-107-04-1-B mg/L 0.05/0.02 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% RPD


Total Phosphorus

SM 4500 PBE 10-115-01-1-U mg/L 0.02/0.01 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% RPD


Total Dissolved Phosphorus

SM 4500 PBE 10-115-01-1-U mg/L 0.02/0.01 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% RPD


Ortho- Phosphate

SM 4500 PE, 10-115-01-1-T mg/L 0.03/0.01 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% RPD


Total Suspended Solids (TSS) SM 2540 D mg/L 0.5/5.0 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% Matrix Spike

80 -120% 100%


Table 7-2 Data Quality Objectives for Water Quality Analyses (Laboratory) Parameter Method Units MDL/ TRL Accuracy Precision Recovery Completeness

RPD Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC)

SM 5310 B mg/L 0.1/0.7 Standard Ref. within 95% CI


RPD


Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)

SM 5210 B mg/L 1.0/2.0 Standard Ref. within 95% CI


RPD


Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)

SM 5220 D mg/L 1.0/10.0 Standard Ref. within 95% CI


RPD


Volatile Suspended Solids (VSS)

SM 2540 E mg/L 1.0/5.0 Standard Ref. within 95% CI


RPD


Total Organic Carbon SM 5310 B mg/L 0.1/0.7 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% RPD


Alkalinity as CaCO3 SM 2320 B mg/L 0.2/3.0 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% RPD


Hardness as CaCO3

SM 3120B HACH 8266 mg/L 0.2/3.0 Standard Ref.


duplicate 25% RPD


Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 Duplicate samples will be analyzed at a frequency of no less than one per 20 samples. The relative percent difference (RPD) of duplicates will be calculated as follows:

RPD = (C1-C2)/((C1+C2)/2)*100 where C1 and C2 are concentrations of analyte in replicate samples 1 and 2. A control limit of 15% will be used for relative percent difference.

Accuracy of analytical data will be evaluated by analyzing reference standards and spiked samples. Reference standards will be run with each batch of samples during laboratory analyses. The relative percent error (RPE) of reference standards will be calculated as follows:

RPE = (C1-C0)/C0*100

where C1 is the concentration analyzed in the sample and C0 is the true concentration. An RPE exceeding 20% will result in reanalysis of the affected samples. Spiked samples will be used to assess the recovery of various analytes. Spikes will contain analytes at the level present in the sample, or at the concentration of the mid-range calibration standard, whichever is higher.

Spike recovery will be calculated as follows:

% Recovery = (As-Ao)/S*100

where, As is the amount of analyte in the spiked sample, Ao is the amount of analyte in a non-spiked sample, and S is the amount of spike added. Control limits of 80 to 120% will be used for percent recovery. Data collected from previous studies and held in the BBLWQDB will be assessed against the same SWAMP data quality objectives, where values are available. 7.1 Accuracy 7.1.1. Chemical and Physical Parameters Accuracy describes how close the measurement is to its true value. Accuracy is the measurement of a sample of known concentration and comparing the known value against the measured value. The accuracy of chemical measurements will be evaluated by analyzing reference standards and spiked samples. The accuracy of field measurements will be ensured also by the use of reference standards and daily instrument calibrations. Pre- and post-calibration checks will be conducted as described in SOP 16-1 of the approved Monitoring Plan and discussed in Section 16 of this QAPP. Reference standards (where available) will be run with each batch of samples during laboratory analyses. The relative percent error (RPE) of check standards will be recorded. Spike recovery control limits of 80 to 120% will be used for nutrient analyses. The concentration of the standards used to calibrate field equipment should

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 bracket the expected range of the water quality response. Tables 7-1 to 7-5 provide the SWAMP-required data quality objectives for the field and chemical measurements analyzed by this study. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the field instrumentation (Horiba U-10 meter) meets the SWAMP requirements for accuracy. 7.1.2 Comparability Comparability is the degree to which data can be compared directly to similar studies or previous studies in the Big Bear Lake area. Project personnel have reviewed and incorporated the SWAMP methods to ensure that the data collected by this project can be compared to others. 7.3 Completeness Completeness is the fraction of planned data that must be collected in order to fulfill the statistical criteria of the project. The primary purpose of this project is to fill data gaps and provide further system characterization. The use of 90% completeness is “suggested” by SWAMP guidance and has been applied to this project. Therefore, the completeness goal for the number of samples collected as a part of this effort will be 90 percent. In the event the frequency of successful sampling drops below 90% then sampling events will be rescheduled during the specified time period for collecting that type of sample. Depending on flow status, tributary sampling may be more difficult to re-schedule at certain times of the year. Storm events that occur after business hours or on the weekends may not be sampled due to safety issues and manpower constraints. Automated sampling equipment may be employed to assist with the collection of storm water samples. A target of 90 percent completeness is reasonable as it accounts for the possibility of adverse weather conditions, safety concerns, and equipment problems. Monitoring staff will determine completeness by comparing the number of measurements planned for collection to the number of measurements actually obtained and deemed valid. An invalid measurement would be one that does not meet the sampling methods requirements and the data quality objectives. Completeness results will be checked quarterly. This will allow an opportunity to identify and correct any problems. 7.4 Precision 7.4.1 Chemical and Physical Parameters The precision objectives apply to duplicate and split samples taken as part of the QA/QC program and/or as part of periodic in-field QC checks. Precision describes how well repeated measurements agree. The evaluation of precision described here relates to repeated measurements taken by either different analyst on the same sample (in the analytical laboratory) or the same person analyzing replicate samples (in the field). Duplicates, spikes and reference standards will be analyzed during the study. Duplicates will be analyzed at a frequency of not less than one per 20 samples collected. Control limits will vary based on the parameter analyzed, however, 15 to 25% will generally be considered acceptable for RPD.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 Tables 7-1 and 7-2 provide the SWAMP-required data quality objectives for the field and chemical measurements analyzed by this study. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the field instrumentation (Horiba U-10 meter) meets the SWAMP requirements for precision. 7.5 Representativeness Representativeness describes how relevant the collected data are to the actual environmental conditions. Representativeness is discussed in Section 7, Section 10.2, Section 11, as well as in the MP. To summarize some of the major conditions: (1) the frequency of sampling and numbers of samples were developed through negotiations between the Task Force and the RWQCB as a means of characterizing seasonal and spatial variations (2) sampling locations are positioned near the mouths of the tributaries to provide information on the nutrient and sediments loads that actually reach the lake; (3) the methods and detection limits used for nutrient analyses reflect the very low levels of nutrients known to be in the tributaries through the course of a year. 7.6 Method Detection Limit and Sensitivity The Method Detection Limit (MDL) is the lowest possible concentration the instrument or equipment can detect with 99 percent confidence that the concentration is greater than zero, but the exact concentration cannot be reliably quantified. This is an important parameter to record because a given constituent is never determined as completely absent, only as non-detectable. Sensitivity is the smallest change in a measurement that an instrument is capable of detecting. For this project, water quality concentrations will be compared to the Target Reporting Limits (TRLs) rather than the MDLs. Tables 7-1 and 7-2 provide the SWAMP-required data quality objectives for the field and chemical measurements analyzed by this study. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the field instrumentation (Horiba U-10 meter) meets the SWAMP requirements for precision. 7.7 Bias Bias is the systematic or persistent distortion of a measurement process that causes errors in one direction. Blanks and matrix spikes are used to estimate bias, while replicates are used to estimate variability. For example, field blanks are quality control samples that measure bias. Specifically, field blanks are used to ensure that the sampling efforts are not introducing contamination to the sample. Trip blanks serve the same purpose, but also evaluate the potential for sample contamination from the analytical laboratory supplying the sample bottle and sample shipment containers. If non-disposable sampling equipment is used, one equipment blank will be submitted for analysis (all methods) during each sampling event. Field duplicates will be collected at the rate of 5 percent of the total project sample count and analyzed blind by the analytical laboratory.


8. SPECIAL TRAINING NEEDS/CERTIFICATION

8.1 Specialized Training or Certifications Field Sampling Brown and Caldwell conducted training of local staff to perform water quality sampling during storm events, baseline, and snow melt events. Training was conducted on July 8-9 and August 27, 2009 to prepare local staff to perform the monitoring to the maximum extent possible. If after the training has been completed it is determined that local staff are unqualified or unavailable to perform the monitoring, the Task Force has the option of using Brown and Caldwell staff to provide some or all of the watershed-wide monitoring as required by the TMDL. One day of classroom training was provided for this program, followed by two complete rounds of baseline monitoring at all creeks, during which time local staff “shadowed” the trainer in the field. QAPP and SOPs All field sampling staff and related contractors (including the analytical laboratory) received copies of the approved MP, QAPP, and associated SOPs for the program. Each field crew will carry a copy of the documents during field activities for reference as needed. 8.2 Training and Certification Documentation All training is documented via use of dated signature sheets and formal training materials. Persons who have received training in water quality monitoring are listed above as Involved Parties in Table 4-1. Formal written training materials will be placed in a binder with signature sheets. Brown and Caldwell will retain copies of all training documentation during the year and will submit them to SAWPA annually for permanent recordkeeping. 8.3 Personnel Responsible for Training Training was conducted by Nancy Gardiner, a stormwater consultant with over 20 years of experience (and who therefore is qualified to perform this training), and other Brown and Caldwell staff.


9. DOCUMENTS AND RECORDS The Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL Task Force will maintain a record of all field analyses and sample records collected through the monitoring program. SAWPA has an existing database of laboratory and field measurement data from previous studies. This database, along with all future data, will be maintained by SAWPA under the direction of the Monitoring Program Manager. Laboratory data will be reported and delivered in SWAMP format (http://swamp.mpsl.mlml.calstate.edu/resources-and-downloads/database-management-systems/swamp-25-database). All laboratory and field measurement data submitted to SAWPA for inclusion in the SAWDMS database will follow the guidelines and formats established by SWAMP (http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/swamp/qapp.html). Data will be transmitted to SAWPA in a standard electronic format and uploaded to the database through batch set electronic means. All contract laboratories will maintain a record of transferred records and will periodically assess their record of transferred records against those actually held by the Task Force. Prior to upload, QA/QC tools will check new data against existing data in the database for completeness, validity of analytical methods, validity of sample locations, validity of sample dates, and data outliers. Data not passing QA/QC tests will be returned to the originating laboratory or generator for clarification and or correction. All steps taken to clarify or correct the data will be recorded. When all data within a batch set have passed QA/QC, the data will be uploaded to the database. A unique batch number, date loaded, originating laboratory, and the person who loaded the data will be recorded in the database, so that data can be identified and removed in the future if necessary. The Task Force’s database is backed up using built-in software backup procedures. In addition, all data files will be backed up on tape on a weekly basis as part of SAWPA’s SOP for disaster recovery. Back up tapes are kept for a minimum of four weeks before they are written over. Tapes are rotated off-site for separate storage on a monthly (or more frequent) basis, in accordance with SAWPA Information Systems SOPs. Each back up session validates whether the files on tape are accurate copies of the original. The Task Force also maintains an access log showing who accessed the database, when, and what was done during the session. All changes to the database are stored in a transaction database with the possibility of rollback, if necessary. Data will be stored on a Windows 2003 Server with a 2Ghz + CPU and 2Gb RAM with a fail safe RAID 5 configuration. The server checks for operating system updates daily and downloads and installs patches and service packs as necessary. The current server is two years old, and as per SAWPA policy, will be replaced after a maximum of 4 years of service. The server is also protected with Norton Anti-Virus software which is updated daily. The database software is Microsoft SQL Server 2000 standard edition with Service Pack 4. The database administrator checks the Microsoft Website for new patches and service packs on a monthly basis and installs updates as necessary. The general policy for updating operating system and database software is to evaluate the software on a test machine after a new version has been out for approximately 1 year. The new version is then installed at the discretion of the network or database administrator.

http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/swamp/qapp.html

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 The database will be operated with a transaction log recording all changes with ability to roll back if necessary. Full database backups will occur on a weekly basis and immediately before batch uploads. It is expected TMDL data will be loaded quarterly to twice per year. Data will be exported from SAW DMS into the SWAMP format using a pre-made query that will map data fields from SAW DMS to the SWAMP template. The exported data will then be sent to the SWRCB IM Coordinator for processing into the SWAMP database. The data will be retrieved for analysis and report writing by exporting from SAW DMS using pre-made queries. The Quality Assurance Manager will conduct reviews of sampling procedures on an annual basis. Reviews will be observed practices against those found in the QAPP. The Quality Assurance Manager will audit all contract laboratories annually. The review will evaluate the method practices against contract laboratory’s SOPs and include an audit of data from the contract laboratory’s quality assurance and quality control program. If an audit discovers any discrepancy, the Quality Assurance Manager will discuss the observed discrepancy with the appropriate person responsible for the activity. The discussion will begin with whether the information collected is accurate, what were the cause(s) leading to the deviation, how the deviation might impact data quality, and what corrective actions might be considered. The Quality Assurance Managers has the power to halt all sampling and analytical work by both Task Force and contract laboratory if the deviation(s) noted are considered detrimental to data quality.


10. SAMPLING PROCESS DESIGN (EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN)

10.1 Monitoring Plan A specific Monitoring Plan has been prepared to provide a detailed description of sampling process design. 10.2 Monitoring Site Selection Sample collection points and a justification for the selected sites are described in greater detail in the approved MP. Tributary sampling stations, located on Rathbun Creek (2 locations), Grout Creek, Summit Creek, Knickerbocker Creek, and Boulder Creek, are positioned near the mouth of the tributaries to provide a better estimate of nutrient and sediment loads actually reaching Big Bear Lake. The GPS coordinates of the tributary water quality sampling locations have been taken The sampling of water quality and suspended sediment concentrations will be performed by manual sampling when wading, by sampling from a bridge, and/or by using an extendable sampling pole or sampler tubing (automated equipment). Sampling efforts for tributaries will be focused on the centroid of flow to ensure the collection of the most representative stream data and analyzed using SWAMP methods.. 10.3 Monitoring Site Accessibility Issues Inaccessibility may be an issue for stream sites, under various circumstances described below.

1. If inaccessibility to a site results from a storm event, in which it would be dangerous to approach the stream, the sampling team will delay sampling for 24 hours up to 48 hours after the storm event (determined by either precipitation amount in inches, i.e., a storm event will be more than 0.25 inches in a 24-hour period, or by base flow, i.e., a storm event will be a doubling of flow within a 24-hour period, if a stream gauge is present or as visually estimated). Alternatively, if a bridge is available from which to conduct sampling, sampling will occur on schedule in that location from the bridge.

2. If sampling sites are temporarily or permanently blocked by a physical obstruction, such as downed trees or evidence of land- or rockslide, or ice or snow, the sampling team will move 25-50 ft. upstream or downstream from the site and conduct sampling there. If there still is no suitable access, the project team will discuss the possibility of sampling further away (up to 100 ft.) from the original station with the project manager, who may approve the change.

3. If the sampling site comes under new ownership, such that previously granted access is now denied, permission will be obtained from the new owner. If this is still denied, a permanent new location will be selected if not too far away from the original station (i.e., within 1,000 ft. and not in a morphologically different stream reach).

10.4 Sources of Natural Variability It should be noted that this project is designed to determine the sources of variability in the system in regards to seasonal conditions, storm events, and snowmelt. The natural variability for this project is likely to be due to the following:


Ice and/or snow cover—May affect stream sampling stations. Will be noted in field observations and may result in some temporary modification of the sampling location (in tributaries, as discussed above. If so, attempts will be made to re-locate at the nearest location upstream of the original sampling spot that is accessible.

Nutrient loads—Storm events and snowmelt affect these parameters in the tributaries. The MP has been designed to gather data on summer and winter “baseline” conditions, as well as during storm events and peak snowmelt conditions.

10.5 Potential Sources of Bias or Misrepresentation This often relates to individuals taking field measurements and processing samples. The use of duplicate/replicates minimizes this bias, as well as the checking of data by a second person (as described in Section 19 and 22. Bias data may be produced by any consistent source of contamination or method of sampling. The project takes measures to identify potential sources of bias through the use of field blanks, trip blanks, and matrix spike samples for water quality samples. Strategies for sampling storm water flows (i.e., time-interval versus flow-composite sampling) may also generate sample bias. A review of information addressing this type of bias will provide ideas on how these types of samples may be biased.


11. SAMPLING METHODS (SAMPLE COLLECTION)

This project will involve the use of several different sample collection methods as well as field data measurement techniques. Field data measurements primarily involve the use of a Horiba U-10 meter. Analytical laboratories have identified the instruments required for constituent analyses in their own specific QA/QC manual and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for analytical methods employed. A MP and applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been developed for each sampling event to be performed. The applicable SOPs for sample collection activities were prepared in accordance with guidance found in SWAMP Appendix D, “Field Collection of Water Samples.” The Big Bear Lake Watershed-wide Nutrient TMDL MP (Appendix 1) provides a detailed description of the tributary water quality sampling approach. In general, either manual instantaneous grab samples or automated samples will be collected at primary tributary sampling stations. The sampling technique used as well as the type of flow sampled will be noted for each sampling event. Whenever possible, sampling personnel will approach a tributary sampling site from downstream and attempt to minimize sediment disturbance, if manual samples are going to be collected. Other tributary samples will be collected by automated sampling equipment or from a bridge. All samples will be taken approximately in mid-stream, at a depth that is representative of the water column. Again, if it is necessary to wade into the water, the sample collector stands downstream of the sample, taking the sample facing upstream. If the collector disturbs sediment when wading, the collector will wait until the effect of disturbance is no longer present before taking the sample, or will move to a location immediately upstream of the disturbed area. Table 11-1 summarizes the known sampling locations, sample matrix, parameter, number of samples, and other sample related information for described sampling methods, including the sampling SOP included with this document (or to be included with this document). Table 11-2 presents information regarding sample volume, sample container, sample preservation method and maximum holding time for each water quality parameter listed.



SOPs

Rathbun Creek (@ Sandlewood Drive)




Form 11-4

Rathbun Creek (Below Zoo)

Input SWAMP station id nomenclature

TBD Water



Form 11-4

Grout Creek (@ 801MWDC03 Lat. 34.269447 Water Temp., DO, pH, conductivity, 12 Monthly Baseline, 4 Form 11-4




SOPs Highway 38) Long. -116.948437 turbidity, TN, TDN, NH3-N,

NO3+NO2, TP, TDP, Ortho-P, BOD, COD, DOC, Hardness, Alkalinity, TSS, VSS, Flow

Monthly Snowmelt (once per month, Feb-May); 1 Summer Storm, 1 Winter Storm

West Summit Creek (@ Swan Drive)

801MWDC05 Lat. 34.248679 Long. -116.893777

Water

Temp., DO, pH, conductivity, turbidity, TN, TDN, NH3-N, NO3+NO2, TP, TDP, Ortho-P, Hardness, Alkalinity, TSS, VSS, Flow


Form 11-4

Knickerbocker Creek (@ Highway 18)




Form 11-4

Boulder Bay Creek (@ Highway 18)




Form 11-4

Bear Creek (Dam Outlet)* 801MWDC02 Lat. 34.242056

Long. -116.977056 Water Temp., DO, pH, conductivity, turbidity, TN, TDN, NH3-N, NO3+NO2, TP, TDP, Ortho-P, Hardness, Alkalinity, Flow


Form 11-4

* This site is currently inaccessible through at least June 2011 due to a Caltrans bridge construction project.

Table 11-2 Water Quality Sample Container, Preservation, & Holding Time Requirements

Parameter Sample Volume Sample Container Preservation Preferred / Maximum Holding Times

Temperature N/A Sample directly with Horiba meter None Immediately

Dissolved Oxygen N/A Sample directly with Horiba meter None Immediately

pH N/A Sample directly with Horiba meter None Immediately

Conductivity N/A Sample directly with Horiba meter None Immediately / refrigerate up to

24 hours

Turbidity 500 mL Sample directly with Horiba meter None Immediately / store in dark for

up to 24 hours Total Suspended Solids 1000 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC 7 days Volatile Suspended Solids 1000 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC 7 days

Alkalinity 100 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC, store in the dark 14 days

Hardness 200 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC; acidify to pH<2 with HNO3

6 months

Total Organic Carbon (TOC) 40 mL Glass bottle Cool to 4oC; acidify 28 days


Table 11-2 Water Quality Sample Container, Preservation, & Holding Time Requirements

Parameter Sample Volume Sample Container Preservation Preferred / Maximum Holding Times

to pH<2 with HCl or H2SO4

Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) 40 mL Glass bottle Cool to 4oC 28 days Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) 4000 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC, store in

the dark 48 hours

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) 1000 mL Glass bottle Cool to 4oC; acidify to pH<2 with H2SO4

28 days

Total Nitrogen 500 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC Immediately / refrigerate in

dark for up to 48 hours

Total Dissolved Nitrogen 500 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC, store in

the dark Immediately / refrigerate in dark for up to 48 hours

Ammonia-N 500 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC, store in the dark 48 hours

Nitrate+Nitrite-N 150 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC, store in

the dark 48 hours

Orthophosphate-P 150 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC, store in the dark 48 hours

Total Dissolved Phosphorus 300 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC, store in the dark 48 hours

Total Phosphorus 300 mL Plastic bottle Cool to 4oC, store in the dark 48 hours

In those cases where glass bottles are required for analytical purposes, plastic samplers are allowed as long as the hold time in the sampling device is instantaneous before transfer to the glass sample bottle. Additionally, sample bottles containing preservatives/fixing agents for sampling will utilize a sampling device to collect the sample prior to transferring the sample into the bottle with preservative. Information regarding the maintenance of sampling equipment and instruments is provided in Section 15 of this document and in the applicable SOPs. In general, the Horiba U-10 used for tributary field measurements will be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. Corrective actions for the applicable field monitoring equipment are also discussed within the applicable SOPs and Record Form. Each analytical laboratory will perform instrument/equipment cleaning/decontamination, disposal of by-products, and corrective actions in accordance with their own QA/QC document. Also, see Section 12.3 for information regarding sample disposal. Forms Form BBMWD11-4, Big Bear Lake Tributary Field Data Measurement and Water Quality Sampling SOP will be used to describe the water quality sampling approach for tributaries.


12. SAMPLE HANDLING AND CUSTODY PROCEDURES

12.1 Sample Handling and Shipment Sample Control in the Field

In the field, all samples will be placed on wet ice or frozen ice packs until shipment. Identification information for each sample will be recorded on field data sheets and chain-of-custody forms. Samples that are not processed immediately in the field (using field instrumentation) will be labeled with the water body name, sample location, sample number, date and time of collection, sampler’s name, and method used to preserve sample (if any). Samples will be handled, prepared, transported, and stored in a manner so as to minimize loss, misidentification, contamination, and/or degradation. Sample Shipping and Packaging Samples will be shipped on ice and in insulated containers (e.g., insulated cooler). All caps and lids will be checked for tightness prior to shipping. Ice chests are sealed with tape prior to shipment. Efforts will be taken to minimize the leakage of any melted ice from the sample shipment container. It is assumed that samples in a sealed cooler are secure regardless of method of transportation to the selected analytical laboratory. Sample packaging will include the following steps:

• Each sample will either be sealed with electrical tape around the sample lid or placed in a sealed plastic bag (Ziploc) to prevent leakage.

• Glass sample containers will be wrapped with plastic insulating material to

prevent contact with other sample containers and the inner walls of the cooler. • Ice (double bagged in plastic trash bags) and/or reusable “blue ice” packs will

be placed in the cooler with the samples to maintain the samples at 4° C during shipment.

• The Chain-of-Custody (COC) record will be enclosed in a waterproof plastic

bag and taped to the underside of the cooler lid.

• Each cooler prepared for shipment will be securely taped shut with reinforced or other suitable tape (strapping tape).

• Samples will be packaged in thermally insulated, rigid coolers.

• If shipping a cooler by commercial carrier, such as Federal Express, all

coolers should be shipped “Priority Overnight” and air bills will be completed and attached to the exterior lids of the containers.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 The collected samples are to be delivered to the laboratory for analyses as soon as practicable. Any delay in the receipt of the samples by the laboratory could necessitate a re-sampling and analysis effort. For further specifics on sampling handling, holding times, and initial preservation, use the information provided in Table 11-2. Shipping Address Two analytical laboratories will be performing the laboratory analyses for the Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL: E.S. Babcock & Sons Laboratory, and GEI Consultants, Inc. E.S. Babcock will provide laboratory analysis of all constituents for the wet-weather samples, and for all but seven constituents for the baseline and snowmelt samples. The E.S. Babcock Laboratory is located at the following address: E.S. Babcock & Sons Laboratory Environmental Laboratory Certification #1156 6100 Quail Valley Court Riverside, California 92502-0704

Phone: (951) 653-3351 For seven constituents (Total Nitrogen, Total Dissolved Nitrogen, Ammonia Nitrogen, Nitrate/Nitrite Nitrogen, Total Phosphorous, Total Dissolved Phosphorous, and Ortho-Phosphate), samples will be shipped to the following laboratory (for baseline and snowmelt samples only):

GEI Consultants, Inc. 4601 DTC Boulevard, Suite 900 Denver, Colorado 80237 Phone: (303) 662-0100

Sample Control at the Laboratory The sample receipt personnel at the laboratory will open the container and perform an initial inspection of the contents to check for evidence of breakage and/or leakage. The container will be inspected for COC documents and any other information or instructions. The sample custodian will verify that all information on the sample bottle labels is correct and in accordance with the COC documents and will sign for receipt. If discrepancies are noted between the COC and the sample labels, the project contact will be notified immediately. Contract laboratories will follow the sample custody procedures outlined in their QA plans. These QA plans are on file with each respective laboratory. All samples will be stored in a refrigerated, secure area. Samples will be removed from storage as needed by the analyst; analysts check out samples by signing a logbook maintained in sample control for tracking samples.


12.2 Custody Procedures Sample Custody An essential component of the sampling program is ensuring that the integrity of individual samples is maintained from the time of collection through analyses to final storage or destruction. Possession of the samples must be traceable identifying all personnel handling the samples (e.g., sampler, transporter, and analyst). To document sample possession, chain-of-custody procedures and records are maintained and followed. A sample is considered under custody if one or more of the following criteria are met:

• The samples are in the possession of the sampler; • It is in the view of the sampler after being in physical possession; • It was in the possession of the sampler and then was locked up to prevent tampering;

and, • It is in a designated secure area.

The designated sampling personnel will be responsible for the custody of the samples collected until they have been properly transferred to a courier. The courier will transport samples to the selected analytical laboratory that will then complete the chain-of-custody paper work. Chain-of-Custody Record Chain-of-custody (COC) forms will be used to document the identification and the integrity of the samples collected. To maintain a record of sample collection, transfer between personnel, shipment, and receipt by the laboratory, a COC form will be filled out for each sample set and type. Specifically, separate COC will be completed for sediment samples as well as water quality samples collected as a part of the field monitoring effort (e.g., turbidity). The COC form will contain the following information:

• Sample station identification; • Signature of the collector; • Date and time of collection; • Sample type; • Number of containers; • Parameters requested for analysis; • Signature of person(s) involved in the chain of possession; • Dates of possession; and, • Pertinent comments and/or remarks.

The individual placed in charge of shipping samples to the laboratory is also responsible for completing the COC form including referencing all applicable QA/QC samples, signing the form, and noting the date and time of shipment. This individual will also inspect the form for completeness and accuracy. Any changes made to the COC form shall be initialed by the person making the change. Copies of chain-of-custody documentation for each project must be kept and provided to SAWPA at project completion.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 The field water quality monitoring tests do not require specific custody procedures since they will be conducted immediately by the same person who performs the sampling. In certain circumstances (such as driving rain or extreme cold), samples will be taken to a nearby building for field analysis. Samples requiring chemical preservation will be fixed prior to transport. Transfer of Custody of Shipment When the possession of samples is transferred, both the individual relinquishing the samples and the individual receiving the sample shall sign, date, and time the COC document. This record shall represent the official documentation for all transference of the sample custody until the samples have arrived at the laboratory. Sealed coolers will be transported by overnight air courier to the laboratory. The COC form will be transported inside the shipping containers. When samples are transferred from one group (e.g., field monitoring staff) to another group (e.g., the analytical laboratory), a Chain-of- Custody (COC) form will be used. This form identifies the water body name, sample location, sample number, date and time of collection, sampler’s name, and method used to preserve sample (if any). It also indicates the date and time of transfer, and the name and signature of the sampler and the sample recipient. In cases where the sample remains in the custody of the monitoring organization, then the field data sheet may be allowed to double as the COC form. It is recommended that when a sample leaves the custody of the monitoring group, then the COC form used be the one provided by the outside professional laboratory. Similarly, when quality control checks are performed by a professional lab, their samples will be processed under their chain-of- custody procedures with their labels and documentation procedures.

12.3 Disposal All analyzed samples or spent chemicals including used reagents, buffers or standards will be collected in a plastic bottle clearly marked “Waste” or “Poison”. This waste material will be disposed of according to appropriate state and local regulations. This will usually mean disposal into a drain connected to a sewage treatment plant.


13. ANALYTICAL METHODS Water chemistry will be sampled and analyzed using the field and analytical methods outlined in this document. These analytical methods have been previously utilized for water quality data collections at Big Bear Lake, and are based on Standard Methods. Table 13-1 outlines the analytical methods to be used, as well as any modifications to the methods, for water quality samples to be analyzed by field personnel and/or the designated analytical laboratory. Where available, the associated method detection limit and laboratory Target Reporting Limit (TRL) are also provided. Project action limits (e.g., water quality criteria or numerical targets) established for applicable parameters were provided in Sections 5.3 and 5.4 of this QAPP. Finally, for this study, the Target Reporting Limits (TRLs) serve as Project Quantitation Limits (PQLs) for the project. The analytical methods selected for use in this study were selected based on the appropriateness of the method for the analysis of surface water, as well as recommendations from SWAMP guidance. A Horiba U-10 meter (or equivalent water quality meter) will be used to collect field water quality data. Water quality samples, total organic carbon and biochemical oxygen demand will be analyzed by E.S. Babcock & Sons Laboratory and GEI Consultants, Inc. (for seven nutrients in the baseline and snowmelt samples only).


Table 13-1 Analytical Methods for Water Quality Parameters (Field and Laboratory)

Parameter Laboratory Units Analytical Method MDLs Target Reporting

Limits*

Temperature Field Staff oC Thermometer (-5 to 50oC) NA NA

Dissolved Oxygen Field Staff mg/L Field – Horiba Meter NA 0.2 mg/L pH Field Staff s.u. Field – Horiba Meter NA NA Conductivity Field Staff mS/cm Field – Horiba Meter NA 2.0 mg/L Turbidity Field Staff NTU Field – Horiba Meter NA 5.0 mg/L Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) E.S. Babcock mg/L SM 5210B 1.0

mg/L 2.0 mg/L

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) E. S. Babcock mg/L SM 5220D 1.0

mg/L 10 mg/L

Total Organic Carbon (TOC) E.S. Babcock mg/L SM 5310B 0.1

mg/L 0.7 mg/L

Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) E.S. Babcock mg/L SM 5310B 0.1

mg/L 0.7 mg/L

Total Nitrogen GEI Consultants/E.S. Babcock µg/L SM 4500 4 µg/L 10 µg/L/20 µg/L

Total Dissolved Nitrogen

GEI Consultants/E.S. Babcock µg/L SM 4500 4 µg/L 10 µg/L/20 µg/L

Ammonia Nitrogen GEI Consultants/E.S. Babcock µg/L SM 4500-NH3,

10-107-06-3-D 3 µg/L 1 µg/L/10 µg/L

Nitrate/Nitrite Nitrogen

GEI Consultants/E.S. Babcock µg/L

SM 4500-NO2B 10-107-04-1-B

5 µg/L 2 µg/L/10 µg/L

Total Phosphorus GEI Consultants/E.S. Babcock µg/L SM 4500 PBE

10-115-01-1-U 2 µg/L 1 µg/L/5 µg/L

Total Dissolved Phosphorus

GEI Consultants/E.S. Babcock µg/L

SM 4500 PBE 10-115-01-1-U


Ortho-Phosphate GEI Consultants/E.S. Babcock µg/L

SM 4500 PE 10-115-01-1-T


Total Suspended Solids E.S. Babcock

mg/L SM 2540 D

0.5 mg/L

5.0 mg/L

Volatile Suspended Solids E.S. Babcock mg/L SM 2540 E 1.0

mg/L 5.0 mg/L

Alkalinity as CaCO3 E.S. Babcock mg/L SM 2320 B 0.2 mg/L 3.0 mg/L

Hardness as CaCO3 E.S. Babcock mg/L SM 3120 B HACH 8266

0.2 mg/L 3.0 mg/L

* Note: E.S. Babcock will conduct laboratory analysis of all constituents in the wet-weather samples and all constituents except seven nutrients (Total Nitrogen, Total Dissolved Nitrogen, Ammonia Nitrogen, Nitrate/Nitrite Nitrogen, Total Phosphorous, Total Dissolved Phosphorous, and Ortho-Phosphate) in the baseline and snowmelt samples. Analysis of these seven nutrients will be performed by GEI Consultants, Inc. of Denver, Colorado.


14. QUALITY CONTROL REQUIREMENTS Quality control samples will be taken to ensure valid data are collected. Depending on the parameter, quality control samples will consist of blanks and replicate samples. Quality control requirements will be reviewed quarterly and discussed with the appropriate staff, particularly through review of data management checklists (Form 19-1), to verify the proper working order of equipment, refresh monitoring personnel in monitoring techniques and determine whether the data quality objectives are being met. 14. 1 Blanks and Replicate Samples Field/Laboratory Blanks: For all conventional water quality analyses, except temperature, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, turbidity and pH, field blanks will be analyzed each water quality sampling event. For nutrients using comparators, a field blank will be analyzed every sampling trip. Color can sometimes appear in these nutrient blanks, suggesting that the real samples may be overestimating the true nutrient concentration. When colorimeters or spectrophotometers are used for comparative nutrient analysis, a laboratory reagent blank will be analyzed and recorded for each day of analysis. Instructions for Field and Lab Blanks: Distilled water is taken into the field or used in the laboratory and handled just like a sample. It will be poured into the sample container and then analyzed. When reagents are used in a test method, then the reagents are added to the distilled water and these types of blanks are referred to as reagent blanks. Field blanks are recorded on the field data sheet. Results from the field reagent blanks should be “<RL” for target analytes. If a substantial concentration of a given nutrient is detected, corrective action will be taken to eliminate the problem. For nutrients measured with colorimeters, the lab reagent blanks should be less than 0.05 ppm and the specific value should be recorded and subtracted from the field sample result. Field Confirmations: If and/or when a second method for measuring temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH is available in the field, then the monitors are encouraged to perform both measurements on a split sample. Examples of this sort of redundant measurement may include:

• For temperature, the use of an electronic thermometer (such as those that are built into dissolved oxygen meters) and an armored thermometer;

• For dissolved oxygen, the use of two separate oxygen meters; • For pH, a meter and a non-bleeding indicator strip.

This will serve to provide backup capability if the more sensitive electronic meters fail, and will provide additional confidence as to the quality of the data. The results of both measurements will be recorded along with the procedure used on the field data sheet. If both results are comparable then the result produced using the method of greater sensitivity will be the one entered in the final data set by the data manager in consultation with the lead sampler. If the two results are inconsistent, the monitoring leader will note on the data sheet which of the results will be entered on the final data set by the data manager. Replicate Samples: Replicate samples are two or more samples collected at the same time and place. When there are only two replicates then these are referred to as duplicates. For

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 conventional water quality and nutrient analyses, duplicate field samples will be taken once every 20 samples (representing 5% of samples) for a given sampling environment (i.e., lake, or tributary). Duplicate samples will be collected as soon as possible after the initial sample has been collected, and will be subjected to identical handling and analysis. Standardization of Instruments and Procedures: Once a year, the temperature measurements will be standardized by comparing the Horiba U-10 (or equivalent) thermometer to a calibrated thermometer in ice water and ambient temperature water. All other meters associated with the Horiba U-10 meter (pH, conductivity, oxygen) will be evaluated using standards provided with the assistance of a professional laboratory and/or by comparing the entire kit to a saturated oxygen standard. Continuous Monitoring Devices: The continuous monitoring devices to be utilized for flow measurements and/or for any water quality parameters will be calibrated and deployed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and field confirmation will be performed using in-situ continuous monitoring devices for flow or temperature measurements. Conformations using a flow meter or a standardized field thermometer will be performed at the time of deploying and retrieving the device. This will serve to determine the accuracy of the continuous monitoring device. 14.2 Summary of Sampling and Analytical Control Requirements Table 14-1 summarizes the quality control regimen. Some aspects, such as calibration frequencies and duplicates/blanks and limits acceptance, are given in other sections of this QAPP (Sections 7 and 16), or are in field and laboratory SOPs. The specific SWAMP requirements for certain tests, as well as general guidelines, are taken from Appendix 4 of the SWAMP guidance document. Further, EPA Region 9 Quality Assurance guidelines for the agency’s “contract” laboratory program are shown for some of the tests to be done (www.epa.gov/Region 9/qa/datatables.html), where there are no SWAMP requirements, or where these might be more stringent than SWAMP specifies (although SWAMP generally follows these requirements). These should be reviewed with the laboratories performing work under this program.


Table 14-1 Sampling and Analytical Quality Control Requirements

for Water Quality Parameters Parameter

Check Methods & Frequency

Acceptance Criteria Corrective Action

Temperature—Field

Thermometer—Calibration to a NIST thermometer twice a year

According to manufacturer’s specifications on +/- degree accuracy

Replace thermometer

Dissolved Oxygen—Field

Calibrate meter before (pre-) and following (post-) sampling for each sampling date.

According to manufacturer’s specifications

Replacement of probe sensor and/or membrane; use secondary meter or iodometric backup sample

pH—Field Meter standardization—prior to use; Calibrate meter before (pre-) and following (post-) sampling for each sampling date. 1 duplicate after every 20 samples

According to manufacturer’s instructions; 2 or more standard buffers used; +/-0.1 pH difference in readings

According to manufacturer’s instructions

Conductivity—Field

Meter standardization prior to use; Calibrate meter before (pre-) and following (post-) sampling for each sampling date. 1 duplicate after every 20 samples

According to manufacturer’s specifications; 2 or more standards used


Turbidity—Field

Meter standardization prior to use; Calibrate meter before (pre-) and following (post-) sampling for each sampling date.

According to manufacturer’s specifications; 2 or more standards used


Nutrients--Laboratory

Blanks—Laboratory and field blanks at one station at each sampling event; 1 analytical blank after every 20 samples; 1 field duplicate at one station per every 20 samples.

According to test method and laboratory QC requirements; See Tables in Section 7 of QAPP

Lab, field, and travel blanks all must be <RL for target analytes. See Tables in Section 7 of QAPP for upper and lower limits; According to test method and lab QC requirements

Total Organic Carbon--Laboratory

Blanks—One laboratory and one field blank at one sample station at each sampling event; 1 blank after every 20 samples; 1 duplicate at one station per sampling event; Calibration verification every 10 samples* (Standard Methods)

Blanks and controls meet analytical specifications; Uniform single-operator precision and bias demonstrated

Prepare standard curves to different concentration range; Filter and do Dissolved OC test on sample and compare

Total Suspended Solids--

Field and laboratory blanks—at one sample station per sampling event; 1 blank and

Within RPD, as shown in Table in Section 7 of QAPP

Re-prepare standards and reanalyze; re-

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 Laboratory duplicate per 20 samples;

Calibration with 2 standards; Calibrate analytical balance

prepare method blank

Volatile Suspended Solids--Laboratory

Field and laboratory blanks—at one sample station per sampling event; 1 blank and duplicate per 20 samples; Calibrate analytical balance

Within RPD, as shown in Table in Section 7 of QAPP

Re-prepare sample

Alkalinity--Laboratory

One titration blank per 20 samples; one duplicate per 20 samples; Use 2 standards

Duplicates within 25%; Reference within 5%; See Table in Section 7 of QAPP

Dependent upon results with titration blank, re-prepare samples and blank and re-analyze

Hardness-- Laboratory

One titration blank per 20 samples; one duplicate per 20 samples; Calibrate with one set of QC reference samples per batch*

Duplicates within 25%; Reference within 5%; See Table in Section 7 of QAPP

Dependent upon results with titration blank, re-prepare samples and blank and re-analyze

MS/MSD = Matrix Spike/Matrix Spike Duplicate RPD = Relative Percent Difference *EPA Region 9 QA guidance specification.


14.3 Acceptance Criteria and Notation Quality control data are reviewed during the laboratory analytical work by the analyst, and also by the QA Director of the Laboratory. Then, they will be reviewed again by the Project Manager and QA Officer. This is described in more detail in Section 19 of the QAPP. At this point, a short summary of the review process and standard notations for “data” qualification are given. Generally, when quality control data show that acceptance limits aren’t met or there are problems, corrective action is promptly taken to determine and eliminate the source of error. Such problems could include: holding-times for samples exceeded, loss of sample, evidence of sample contamination, analytical equipment malfunctions, and QC outliers. Data are not reported until the cause of the problem is identified, and either corrected or “qualified.” Qualifying the data does not eliminate the need to take corrective actions, but allows for the “quality” of the data to be determined later on (in other words, whether analyses must be performed again, or even if sampling must be performed again). The notations for analytical data will be applied in accordance with the available SWAMP guidance (see QA codes).


15. INSTRUMENT/EQUIPMENT TESTING, INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

A maintenance log form will be kept by the monitoring lead sampler. This log will detail the dates of instrument and sampling gear inspection, battery replacement, the dates reagents and standards are replaced, and any problems noted with instruments, samplers, or reagents. Table 15-1 provides a summary of the records that will be kept by SAWPA for inspection and maintenance of instruments and supplies is as follows: Table 15-1 Inspection and Maintenance Records of Instruments and Supplies Instrument Activity Responsible

Person Frequency SOP Reference

Horiba U-10 Meter (or equivalent)

Inspection of probes & battery check

Field monitoring personnel

Prior to each sampling event

Form 16-1 (information included with daily calibration record – see below)


D.O. membrane replacement and conductivity electrode cleaning


Quarterly Form 16-1


Standards Check


Quarterly Form 16-1

15.1 Temperature The Horiba U-10 probe (or an equivalent instrument) will be maintained according to manufacturer specifications, in addition to an annual instrument inspection by the manufacturer. The accuracy the probe can be verified by comparing with a calibrated or NIST certified thermometer. 15.2 Dissolved Oxygen Dissolved Oxygen Meters: Membranes and solutions should be replaced according to manufacturer’s specifications, but no less frequently than quarterly. Membranes should be checked for bubbles after replacement. Before each use, the Horiba U-10 (or equivalent) probe for dissolved oxygen (D.O.) will be checked to see if it is clean and in good working order. 15.3 pH and Conductivity Before each use, pH and conductivity meters will be checked to see if they are clean and in good working order. pH and conductivity meters will be calibrated before each use. pH buffers and conductivity standards are replaced at least annually and the expiration date will be check at least quarterly. Conductivity standards are stored with the cap firmly in place and in a dry place kept away from extreme heat. Do not re-use pH or conductivity standards.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 15.4 Turbidity The turbidity (nephelometers) probe will be checked for cleanliness and proper operation. Forms Form BBMWD15-1, Horiba U-10 probe (or equivalent) Meter Maintenance SOP and Record Form will be used to describe and record the annual maintenance of the meters.


16. INSTRUMENT/EQUIPMENT CALIBRATION AND FREQUENCY

This section describes how the field personnel will ensure quality performance of the Horiba U-10 meter field measurements. Quality assurance protocols for laboratory analyses will be in accordance with each lab’s QA plan and are not included herein. The Horiba U-10 (or equivalent portable water quality meter) will be calibrated against standards according to the following schedule. Standards will be purchased from a chemical supply company or prepared by or with the assistance of a professional laboratory. Calibration and daily maintenance records will be recorded on the meter calibration form referenced in this section (Form 16-1). A notation will be made in the field notebook to indicate that the calibration was performed. The frequency of calibration is given in Table 16-1. Table 16-1 Instrument Calibration and Frequency Conventional Water Quality Parameters Equipment Type Calibration Frequency Standard or Calibration Instrument Used Temperature Once a Year NIST calibrated or certified thermometer Dissolved Oxygen Meter

Every sampling day (pre- and post-sampling)

At a minimum, water saturated air, according to manufacturer’s instructions.

pH Every sampling day (pre- and post-sampling)

Calibrate using pH 7.0 buffer and one other standard (10 s.u.); if pH is below 7.0, calibrate using pH 4.0 standard

Conductivity Every sampling day (pre- and post-sampling)

Two Conductivity standards (0.100 and 0.500 mS/cm)

Turbidity meter (nephelometer)

Every sampling day (pre- and post-sampling)

Three Turbidity standards will be used – 0.0 NTU (DI water), 10.0 NTU, and 100 NTU.

Forms Form BBMWD16-1, Horiba U-10 (or equivalent) Meter Calibration SOP and Record Form will be used to describe and record the calibrations of the Horiba meter.


17. INSPECTION/ACCEPTANCE OF SUPPLIES AND CONSUMABLES Consumable supplies for this project are somewhat limited, and therefore, fairly easy to control. Consumable supplies include the following items: 1) Horiba meter calibration standards, 2) Horiba meter batteries, 3) sample bottles and sample coolers, 4) labeling tape, 5) trash bags, and 6) gloves. The Horiba meter standards will be inspected as described in Sections 15 and 16 of this document. The Horiba calibration standards will be replaced before they exceed manufacturer’s recommended shelf life. Since the expiration date of the calibration standards will be monitored, the supply or amount of available calibration standard will be evaluated simultaneously. Similarly, Horiba meter battery voltage will also be documented, therefore, battery status will be routinely evaluated. Field monitoring personnel re-charge the battery after each sampling event. As a part of routine analytical lab operations, sample bottles and shipment containers are returned on a regular basis after use. Prior to return to the field, sample bottles are cleaned at the lab following the established decontamination procedures as described in the analytical labs QA/QC manual. Finally, items like trash bags, labeling tape, and glove are kept in stock for a variety of purposes. It is highly unlikely that any of these items would become unavailable at any time. However, if this were to occur, most of these supplies could be obtained from a local hardware store.


18. NON-DIRECT MEASUREMENTS Data from previous sampling efforts will be combined with water quality and sediment data collected by this effort. Eventually, all tributary monitoring data will be input into the SAWPA’s database to provide data management support for watershed monitoring activities, management activities, and ultimately TMDL implementation efforts. All data collected for this program will be SWAMP-compatible. 18.1 Professional Analytical Data Although not required by the TMDL, only certified analytical laboratories or academic laboratories (with approval of State and/or Regional Board staff) will be used for analysis of field samples and for quality assurance checks. E.S. Babcock & Sons Laboratory is a certified analytical laboratory in the State of California. 18.2 Geographical Information/Mapping When and where applicable, USGS maps will be used to verify watershed boundaries and river courses. Land use information will be obtained from local planning offices, if needed. The following standard references are used for all pertinent land use and natural resources information on the San Bernardino Mountain Areas: California Department of Conservation, 1994. Mineral Land Classification of a Part of Southwestern San Bernardino County: the Big Bear Lake-Lucerne Valley Area, California. Division of Mines and Geology Open File Report No. 94-06. California Department of Finance, 2005. 2000 Census and other demographic data.

www.dof.ca.gov. County of San Bernardino, 1996. General Plan General Sections and Mountain Region. San

Bernardino, CA. Senate District #31, 2005. Demographic and Solid Waste Data. www.sen.ca.gov. South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), 1997-2005. Air Quality Data.

www.aqmd.ca.gov. State Water Resources Control Board, 2004. Leaking Underground Storage Tank Information

System (LUSTIS) database and Department of Health Services (DHS) well data. http://geotracker.swrcb.ca.gov.

U.S. Department of Agriculture/U.S. Forest Service/Soil Conservation Service, 1981. Soil

Survey of the San Bernardino National Forest Area, California. U.S. Forest Service/U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, 2005. San Bernardino National Forest Land and

Resource Management Plan.


19. DATA MANAGEMENT

All data generated by this program will be presented in a SWAMP-compatible format with the required QA information and associated metadata, and will be stored at SAWPA. The contract laboratory’s records pertinent to the program will be maintained at the contract laboratory’s main office. Copies of all records held by the contract laboratory will be provided to the Task Force and stored in the Task Force archives. All records will be passed on to the Santa Ana Regional Board TMDL Program Manager, and/or other State Agencies as required and appropriate for each project at project completion. Copies of the chemical monitoring records will be maintained by SAWPA and each laboratory contracted by the Task Force for five years after project completion then discarded, except for the database, which will be maintained without discarding. Copies of other monitoring records will be maintained by the Program Administrator for the Project for five years after project completion then discarded. All data records will be checked visually and recorded as checked by initials and dates. The Quality Assurance Manager will do all reviews, and the Task Force Program Coordinator will perform a check of 10% of the reports. The contract laboratory’s Quality Assurance Officers will perform checks of all of its records and the contract’s Laboratory Director will recheck 10%. All checks by the contract laboratory will be reviewed by appropriate Task Force personnel. Issues will be noted. Reconciliation and correction will be done by a committee composed of the Field Supervisor, Analyst, and appropriate Quality Assurance Manager; and the contract laboratory’s Quality Assurance Officer and Laboratory Director. Any corrections require a unanimous agreement that the correction is appropriate. The Task Force will meet regularly to review results from the monitoring program and make any appropriate adjustments to ensure the utility and integrity of data collected. The Regional Board will be notified of all such meetings, and will review and comment on the deliverables associated with this effort in terms of their compliance with the Monitoring Plan (MP), Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP), and the Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Plan (SWAMP).


20. ASSESSMENT AND RESPONSE ACTIONS All reviews will be made by the Project QA Officer and may include Regional Board staff. Reviews of sampling procedures will be conducted on a quarterly basis. Reviews will be observed practices against those found in the sampling SOPs. The Project QA officer will audit E.S Babcock Laboratories annually. The review will be observed method practices against Babcock’s SOPs and an audit of data from Babcock’s quality assurance and quality control program. If an audit discovers any discrepancy, the Project QA Officer will discuss the observed discrepancy with the appropriate person responsible for the activity. The discussion will begin with whether the information collected is accurate, what were the cause(s) leading to the deviation, how the deviation might impact data quality, and what corrective actions might be considered. The Project QA Officer has the power to halt all sampling and analytical work by both the field monitoring personnel and Babcock Laboratories if the deviation(s) noted are considered detrimental to data quality.


21. REPORTS TO MANAGEMENT Quarterly Progress Report The Quarterly Progress Report on the project will be prepared by the Project Manager. This will include a section summarizing QA/QC activities, as prepared by the Project Quality Assurance Officer. The report will be transmitted to the Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL Task Force and Regional Board staff. The Quarterly Progress Report will include:

Progress Report # Indicate what number the report is. Reporting Period

Identify the time period covered by the report (e.g., July 1, 2009 – September 30, 2009). Submittal Date

Indicate the date that the report is sent to the Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL Task Force and Regional Board Staff.

Project Name Indicate the name of the project.

Contractor Name Indicate Contractor’s name

Project Director Indicate Project Director by printing and signing name

Summary of Work Completed During Reporting Period Provide short narrative summary of work performed. List of Deliverables List all deliverables included with this report. Progress Report Narrative

Introduction Provide a brief one or two sentence introduction or summary of the report (e.g., “During the reporting period, project activities focused on completing design of the pipeline segments 1,3, and 4” or “ … focused on monitoring activities and repairing process or system failures or deficiencies” or … “focused on improving system efficiency,” etc.). Summary of Activities Provide a brief description of milestones, products, meeting and modifications completed, and problems and issues encountered during the reporting period.

Big Bear Lake Watershed-Wide Nutrient TMDL Monitoring QAPP December 30, 2009 Final Report Once all the monitoring under this program is completed, the Project Manager will prepare a Final Program Report that will generally summarize all activities.

Table 21-1. Reports

Type of Report

Frequency (daily, weekly,

monthly, quarterly,

annually, etc.)

Projected Delivery Dates(s)

Person(s)

Responsible for Report

Preparation

Report Recipients

Progress

Quarterly

Progress Reports by the

twentieth (20th) of the month following the end of the calendar quarter

(March, June, September, and

December)

Project Manager

Big Bear Lake Nutrient

TMDL Task Force, RWQCB

Draft Final

Once

By the 30th of the

month following the termination of the

program

Project Manager

Big Bear Lake Nutrient


Final

Once

30 days after submission of Draft

Final

Project Manager Big Bear Lake Nutrient



22. DATA REVIEW, VERIFICATION AND VALIDATION

Data generated by project activities will be reviewed against the data quality objectives cited in Element 7 and the quality assurance/quality control practices cited in Elements 14, 15, 16, and 17. Data will be separated into three categories: data meeting all measurement quality objectives, data meeting failing precision or recovery criteria, and data failing to meet accuracy criteria. Data meeting all measurement quality objectives, but with failures of quality assurance/ quality control practices will be set aside until the impact of the failure on data quality is determined. Once determined, the data will be moved into either the first category or the last category. Data falling in the first category is considered usable by the project. Data falling in the last category is considered not usable. Data falling in the second category will have all aspects assessed. If sufficient evidence is found supporting data quality for use in this project, the data will be moved to the first category, but will be flagged with a “J” as per EPA specifications. Greg Cole of Brown and Caldwell will serve as the Project QA Officer and will be responsible for data review, verification, and validation. He will perform these QA/QC functions when data reports are received from the analytical laboratory.


23. VALIDATION AND VERIFICATION METHODS The documents needed to conduct verification and validation activities described above for this project are listed below in Table 23-1.

Table 23-1. Inputs to Data Verification and Validation

Activity

Records to be Reviewed

Sources for Record Specifications

Sample Collection --Daily field logs or notebooks --Photograph logs --Sampling container labels --Sample collection logs --Chain-of-Custody (COC) forms --Shipper’s copy of air bills

--Project QAPP --SOPs for sample collection --Related SOPs --Pre-printed COC instructions

Sample Receipt

--COC forms from sampler --Receiver’s copy of air bill --Internal laboratory receipt forms --Internal laboratory COC forms --Internal laboratory container labels--Laboratory refrigerator or freezer logs

--Project QAPP --Laboratory QAPP --Laboratory SOPs --Pre-printed COC instructions

Sample

Preparation

--Analytical services requests (Purchase Orders) --Laboratory receipt forms, Internal ---Laboratory COC forms --Internal laboratory container labels--Laboratory refrigerator or freezer logs --Preparation logs (Bench Sheets) --Manufacturer’s certificates for standards or solutions

--Project QAPP --Laboratory QAPP --Reference method (EPA or other) --Laboratory SOPs for sample preparation --Pre-printed instructions on laboratory internal forms

Sample Analysis

and Disposal

--Analytical services requests (Purchase Orders) --Internal laboratory receipt forms --Internal laboratory COC forms --Sample container labels --Laboratory refrigerator or freezer logs --Manufacturer’s certificates for standards or solutions --Instrument logs (Bench Sheets) --Instrument operations manuals --Instrument readouts (Raw Data) --Instrument calibration logs and worksheets --Calculation worksheets

--Project QAPP --Laboratory QAPP --Reference method (EPA or other) --Laboratory SOPs for sample analysis and disposal --Pre-printed instructions on laboratory internal forms --Laboratory internal worksheets --Laboratory waste manifests


--Quality Control (QC) test results

Records Review

--Project checklists --Internal laboratory checklists

--Project QAPP --Laboratory QAPP

Additionally, The SWAMP Quality Assurance Checklist will be used by the Project Quality Assurance Officer and by the Regional Board’s Quality Assurance Officer when data are submitted, every six months, and also will be submitted in the Annual Progress Report for those QA/QC activities that have occurred.


24. RECONCILIATION WITH USER REQUIREMENTS Selected members of the Big Bear Lake Nutrient TMDL Task Force will work with the Project Manager and the Regional Board’s staff representative to review the data on a quarterly basis to determine if the data quality objectives have been met, using the procedures described in Section 22 of this QAPP. If data do not meet the project’s specifications, the following actions will be taken. First, the Committee members will work with the Project Manager and other critical Project Team personnel, to review the errors and determine the exact cause of the problem(s). Once the cause of the problem(s) is identified, the technical committee and the project manager will suggest corrective actions. The identified problem and the suggested corrective actions will be communicated to the contract manager for review and approval, as per the procedures described in Section 20 of this QAPP. If the problem(s) cannot be resolved by the Technical Advisory Committee or if the data quality objectives cannot be met, a meeting will be held with the Project Manager and the Quality Assurance Manager and/or the Regional Board’s Quality Assurance Manager to identify a solution that is acceptable to all parties. The Project Work Plan and QAPP will then be revised to reflect the changes.