Polk Co. Water Supply Watershed

fyi, To: Jeff Manning
Roger Edwards
Linda Wiggs
Wanda Frazier
Michele Racquet
Subject: Forest City Intake
and Stream Classification - Rutherford and Polk Counties
From: Elizabeth Kountis Elizabeth. Kountis anncmail.net
Date: Mon, 23 May 2005 16:10:39 -0400
To: Jim Adams <[e-mail]?,
forrestO-mcgillengineers.com
Wanda Frazier
*Jim:*
thanks for the info.
When, you are able to grant final, approval of the intake location, I would
appreciate receiving this approval in writing, and we would like this final approval
(at least in verbal form) before proceeding much with the reclassification.
*Forrest:*
If you could send (via fax, e-mail or regular postal mail) me a topo with the
proposed intake marked, that would be. great, so I'm.sure we're on the same
page regarding where the intake is to be located.
I have the coordinates at 35 11 58 N, 81 51 55 W (per info associated with the
request when it was initially made), but figures provided in a Jan. 25, 20051etter
from Town of Forest City to Jim Adams are 35 12 .01 N, 81 52 12 W.
Please confirm that the later (Jan 2005) coordinates are correct.
Any idea on when the EA will be submitted? It would-be best for at least the draft
EA to be submitted and then to get the first set of comments back on it before
going very far with the reclassification, so we can be relatively assured that the
project will go forward as'proposed.
Have resolutions from the two municipalities with jurisdiction in the proposed
WS-IV watershed been received? It appears that these two municipalities are

Polk County and Rutherford'County, and we recommend that these resolutions
be forwarded to us before moving ahead with the reclassification.
Please note that there has been some interest, in merging the proposed Forest
City water supply watershed with the existing upstream WS-IV watershed as well
as the proposed downstream Shelby water supply watershed. Regarding this
matter, I am in the process of contacting staff with these two towns as well as
the municipality most affected by these proposed mergers, specifically
Rutherford County.
Jim Adams wrote:
I'll be in Friday afternoon and Monday.....
Notes:
Forest City has moved the intake location from the original requested site. This
new location (near Richardson Creek) on the Broad River but still on the projects
property. The near by drainage basin' of the original location cause some
concerns with source water vulnerability (RR r/w, major transportation corridors,
industrial areas, etc)
With the relocation, an industrial WWTP discharge point (old Cherokee Mills) was
located much closer (-1 mile):... so the town agreed to relocate the discharge
downstream of the this new proposed intake location. Forest Westall (McGills)
should be able to supply the new lat/longs for the new intake location.
Our final approval of an intake location will have to clear some technical review .
(design, EA, etc.), so we have given a basic conceptual approval for the site.
This may help in your review. If you have some additional questions please, let
me know.
(TXTWPF/Polk County stream reclassification req.doc)

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
Asheville Regional Office -
James G. Martin, Governor Ann B. Orr
William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Regional Manager
DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
WATER QUALITY SECTION
April 9, 1990
Mr. Henry Huntsinger, Vice -Chairman
County Commissioners
Box 308
Columbus, North Carolina 28722
Dear Mr. Huntsinger:
In the recent meeting concerning "High Quality Waters", Governor
James G. Martin requested that the Division of Environmental Management
supply each County Chairman with a complete copy of the water quality
standards. In fulfilment of that request, please find attached copies
of the water quality regulations found in Title 15 North Carolina
Administrative Code 2B .0100 and 2B .0200 plus a copy of the stormwater
regulation. The stormwater regulation is included since section 2B of
the Administrative Code references wet detention ponds as described in
the storm water regulation. The regulations concerning "High Quality
Waters" have been provided previously. The -enclosed materials contain
that information plus all other water quality standards pertaining to
North Carolina waters.
The State has several other regulations covering such items as
sewer collection systems, water quality certification, wastewater
treatment facilities, and other aspects of the the water quality
program. It you desire to discuss the enclosed materials or would like
copies of the other regulations, please contact me.
Sincerely,
w__ '04H
orrestt Westall
Regional Water Quality Supervisor
Enclosure
xc: Ann B. Orr
Interchange Building, 59 Woodfin Place, Asheville, N.C. 28801 • Telephone [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer

'tate of North Carolina
`Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
ivision of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
J Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
AI LT.WMA,
EDEHNFi
June 6, 1997
-Mr. W. Lane Bailey
County Manager l �`
Polk CountyV
P. O. Box 308
Columbus, NC 28722-0308'
RE: W_SW atershed Protection Ordinance; Po1k�Coonty ,�. �J
Dear Mr. Bailey,
The purpose of this letter is to inform you of -the status of the water -supply watershed
protection ordinance for Polk. County which has recently been reviewed by Division of
Water Quality staff. On behalf of the Environmental Management Commission (EMC), I
am informing you of the changes that must be made prior to final review and approval of
the ordinance. Corrections recommended under the revised 1995 version of the Water
Supply Watershed Protection Rules are optional and are noted as such in this letter. The
other corrections are not optional, and Polk County has 120 days from receipt of this letter
to modify and resubmit the ordinance to the Division- of Water Quality in accordance with
the Water Supply Watershed Protection Act (NCGS 143-214.5). The deadline for
submission is Friday, October 10, 1997: The changes to be made are:
It is desirable but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 103(D) to read: "A pfe existing let ewned by an fidiv dua „ r to th
7
If a non -conforming lot of record is not
contiguous to any other lot owned by the same party, then that lot of record shall
single family purposes. ,
singleeentiguetis lets under- . See Section 307(A)(2) regarding the
recombination of existing lots."
2. It is optional but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 302(B) to read: In addition, ^^n ,-eside. tia ••se-s new development
and expansions to existin development may occupy fi-ve ten percent {fie) LIQE01 of
the balance of the watershed, which is outside the critical area, with a seventy
percent (70%) built -upon area when approved as,.a special Rear-esidenfial intensity
allocation (SNIA).
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post -consumer paper

Mr. W. Lane Bailey
June, 6, 1997
Page Two
3. It is optional but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 302(B)(2)(b) to read: "All Other Residential and Non -Residential --
development shall not. exceed twelve percent (12%) built -upon area on a project by
project basis except that up to five ten percent (- 1( 0%) of the balance of the
watershed, which is outside the critical area, may be developed for Ron residentia
use to seventy percent (70%) built -upon area on a project by project basis. ...."
4. It is optional but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 302(D), to read: ".... In addition, nen residential use new development
and expansions to existingdevelopment may occupy fire ten percent k5l%) LL0010of
the balance of the watershed, which is outside the critical area, with a seventy
percent (70%) built -upon area when approved as a special nonresidential intensity
allocation (SNIA). ...."
5. It is optional but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 302(D)(2)(b) to read: "All Other Residential and Non -Residential --
development shall not exceed twenty-four percent (24%) built -upon area on a
project by project basis except that up to five ten percent (5%) 1( 0%) of the balance
of the watershed, which is outside the critical area, may be developed for- fien.r-esid&ntial use -
to seventy percent (70%) built -upon area on a project by project
basis. .
6. Change wording in Section 303(A) to read: "Minimum lot sizes are not applicable
to single family cluster development projects; however the total number of lots
shall not exceed the number of lots allowed .for single family detached
developments in Section 302. Density or built -upon area or ster-fn ater- eont -e
refor the project shall not exceed 'that allowed for the critical area,
protected area, or balance of watershed, whichever applies."
7. It is desirable but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 303(C) to read: "The remainder of the tract shall remain in a vegetated or
natural state. Where the development has an ineefper-ated ppropperty -c^r` n
eiatien, *The title of to' the open space area shall be conveyed to the a n
incorporated homeowners association for management: to a local government for
preservation as a park or open space; or to a conservation organization for
preservation in a permanent easement. Where a property association is not
incorporated, a maintenance agreement shall be filed with the property deeds."
8. It is desirable but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by deleting Section
306(C) and relettering the Section.
9. - It is desirable but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by deleting Sections
307(A) and 307(B) and relettering the Section.
10. It is desirable but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 309 to read: "
prior- to the effeetive date of this Or -di anee [N]o permit required under the North
Carolina State Building Code shall'be issued for any activity for which a Watershed
Protection Permit is required until that permit has been issued."

Mr. W. Lane Bailey
June 6, 1997
Page Three
11. Change wording in Section 501(C) read: "... and shall provide copies of all
amendments upon adoption to the Supervisor- of H'.e CA-Ass;f.eatio.. and Standards
Gr-eup, Division of Water Quality Seetien, Division of Eiivir-enental
Management." Note that in July 1996, the N.C. Division of Environmental
Management (DEM) became the Division of Water Quality (DWQ). Please change
all references from DEM to DWQ. in the Ordinance.
12. It is optional but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 501(D) to read: "The Watershed Administrator shall keep records of the
,-isdi fien! Polk County's utilization of the provision that a maximum of five ten
percent (5%) 1� 0%) of the non -critical area of WS-II-BW and WS-III-BW
watersheds may be developed to a maximum of
seventy percent (70%) built -upon surface area. ...."
13. Change wording in Section 501(F) to read: ".... This record shall be submitted
each calendar year to the ,
Water- Quality Seetien Division of Water Quality on an
annul or before January 1st of the following calendar year and shall provide
a description of each project receiving a variance and the reasons for granting the
variance."
14. . It is optional but not mandatory to meet the 1995 revisions by changing wording in
Section 507(B) to read: "The Watershed Review Board shall give final approval
based on the recommendation of the Watershed Administrator for projects that fall
under the 5%/70 10%/70% provision."
15. Change wording in Section 507(C) to read: In addition, the Polk County
shall notify and allow a reasonable comment period for all other local governments
having jurisdiction in the designated watershed and the entity using the water.
supply for consumption where the variance is being considered."
16. Change wording in Section 507(C)(1)(c) to read: "The Watershed Administrator
shall notify in writing each local government having jurisdiction in the watershed
and the entity using the water supply for consumption. ...."
17. Change or add wording in Section 601 "General Definitions" to reflect the 1995
revisions as follows:
"Balance of Watershed (Protee~eA=ea)." "This area is defined as
iRtake is leeatea or ten n3ilethe entire drainage basin upstream of and draining to a
6,ver intake WS-II or WS-III watershed critical area where the risk of water supply
pollution is greater than in surrounding areas. Note: Balance of Watershed Areas
are only used for WS-II or WS-III watershed classifications."
"Built -upon area." "Built -upon areas shall include that portion of a development
project that is covered by impervious or partially impervious cover including
buildings, pavement, gravel reads areas (e.g. roads, parking lots.. paths),
recreation facilities (e.g. tennis courts), etc. ...."

Mr. W. Lane Bailey
June 6, 1997
Page Four
"Cluster Development." ".... as well as single-family residential subdivisiens
and multi -family developments that do not in elve the subdivision of !an . For the
purpose of this ordinance, planned unit development and mixed use development
are considered as cluster development."
"Critical Area." ".... or the ridge line of the watershed (whichever comes first).
Since WS 1 water -sheds are essentially undeveloped, establishment ef a or-itioal are
is not Local governments may extend the critical area as needed. ...."
"Non -conforming Lot of Record." "A lot described by plat or a deed that
was recorded prior to the effective date of this ordinance that does not meet the
minimum lot size or other development requirements of the statewide watershed
protection rules." _
"Protected Area." The area adjoining a�pstream of the critical area of a WS-
All other aspects of your ordinance were deemed acceptable, and we will present your
ordinance to the Water Quality Committee of the Environmental Management Commission
for their consideration and approval once the above noted corrections are made and the
ordinance is resubmitted. Although you are not required to update your ordinance to meet
the 1995 Water Supply Watershed Protection Rules revisions, you may wish to consider
these new rules when amending your ordinance to incorporate the required changes listed
above. If you have any questions regarding the staffs review and analysis or regarding the
Water Supply Watershed Protection Program in general, please contact Brent McDonald at
[phone], extension 508 at your convenience.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation and support of the Water Supply Watershed
Protection Program.
Sincerely,
j
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E.
cc: Brent.C. McDonald, DWQ
C'jForrest Westall; -DWQ)
- -
Alan Lang, ARO DCA
Mark Maxwell, Polk County Planning. Director
DWQ Central Files

POLK COUNTY STREAM WATER QUALITY.
YEAR EIGHT
VOLUNTEER WATER INFORMATION NETWORK
Richard P. Maas
Steven C. Patch
Marilyn J. Westphal
April L. Alford
Christine T. Glendenning
Timothy C. Green
Technical Report #01-08IV,
JULY 2001
THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT ASHEVILLE

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgments 1
Section I - Introduction
2
List of Sites
3
Map of Sites
4
Section II - Methodology
5
Section III - Results and Discussion
6
Classification Grades Based on Parameters and Ranges
7
A. Acidity and Alkalinity
9
B. Turbidity and Total Suspended Solids
11
C. Conductivity and Heavy Metals
13
D: Nutrients
14
Section IV - Summary and Conclusions
21
Index Ratings for Polk County Monitoring Sites
22
Discussion - The Green River Watershed
21
Discussion - The White Oak Creek Watershed
23
Discussion - The North Pacolet River Watershed
23
APPENDICES
A.
Sample Data Sheet
Al
B.
Laboratory Analysis and Detection Limits
A2
C.
Parameters and Ranges for Stream Quality Classifications
A3
D.
Stream Ranking Index for All Sites in the Region
. A5
E.
Data Summary
A9
F.
Trends for Each Site with Flow and Over Time
Al2
G.
Seasonal Trends
A13
� 95
AUG 1 3 2001

Acknowledgments
We wish to thank the The Pacolet Area Conservancy and the Polk County Board of
-- Commissioners for their continued financial support of the monitoring program. Their foresight
in developing a county -wide stream water quality monitoring program will help provide
j information to protect water quality as the population of the county grows.
- Special credit should be given to Graham Peterson, the coordinator of the Polk County
program and to David Rice and Bill Meanix who deliver the samples to the Environmental
Quality Institute laboratory every month. Of course, the volunteers who collect the samples
every month are the most important part of the program. Many thanks to the Polk County
volunteers including McCrae Dalton, Cary Davenport, Michelle Edwards, Lane Bailey, Bill
Meanix, Al and Sallie Page, Steven Bouley, Graham Peterson, Bill Janes, Paul Weidman, David
Prudhomme, Al Rolla, James Donlan, and Jay Tirre.
Without volunteers anymonitoring program would be prohibitively expensive. These
concientious citizens are making an important contribution to the preservation of clean water
resources in Polk County and their efforts are greatly appreciated. Concern about water quality
continues to grow and the information gathered by these dedicated volunteers will play an
important role in developing a comprehensive management plan for the Broad River watershed
and will provide valuable data for local resource planning.

I. Introduction
VWIN's History
i
- The Volunteer Water Information Network (VWIN) is a partnership of groups and
individuals dedicated to preserving water quality in western North Carolina. Organizations
such as the Pacolet Area Conservancy (PAC), RiverLink Inc., the Environmental
Conservation Organization of Henderson County (ECO), and many others provide
administrative support. The UNC-Asheville Environmental Quality Institute (EQI) provides
technical assistance through laboratory analysis of water samples, statistical analysis of water
- quality results, and written interpretation of the data. Volunteers venture out once per month
to collect water samples from designated sites along streams and rivers in the region.
An accurate and on -going water quality database, as provided by VWIN, is essential
- for good environmental planning. The data gathered by the volunteers provides an
increasingly accurate picture of water quality conditions and changes in these conditions over
time. Communities can use this data to identify streams of high water quality which need to be
preserved, as well as streams which cannot support further development without significant
water quality degradation. In addition, the information allows planners to assess the impacts
of increased development and the success of pollution control measures. Thus, this program
provides the water quality data for evaluation of current management efforts and can help
guide decisions affecting future management actions. The VWIN program also encourages
involvement of citizens in the awareness, ownership and protection of their water, resources.
In February of 1990, volunteers began monthly sampling 27 stream sites in Buncombe
County. The program expanded to 45 sites by November of 1990. Since that time, eight other
area counties have begun monitoring of local streams, rivers, and lakes to bring the total
monitoring sites to 192. Monthly sampling of these sites provides extensive water quality
information for the French Broad River and Broad River Watersheds and now also provides
information on the Tuckasegee and Catawba River watersheds in North Carolina. Sample
sites were chosen to adequately cover as many watershed drainage areas as possible within
each county. Some sites were chosen to cover potential future water supplies. Several sites
were also selected as control sites to provide comparison between undeveloped and developed
watersheds.
The Polk County VWIN Program
In April of 1993, the Pacolet Area Conservancy began a VWIN program that
monitored 10 selected streams in order to begin providing an assessment of water quality
conditions in Polk County. PAC named the program "streamwatcY and it became an instant
success. The program has expanded and now includes 15 sites. The approximate location of
all the monitoring sites in the county can be found on the map. in Figure 1. Table 1 is list of
the monitoring sites and their locations.
Under the administration of the Pacolet Area Conservancy, .this program has gathered
i
eight years of water quality data. This report represents statistical analyses and interpretation
of data gathered by VWIN volunteers from April 1993 through March 2001.
0

Approximate Locations of Current
Polk County VWIN Monitoring Sites
1. White Oak Creek at S.R. 1137 (Houston Rd.)
2. White Oak Creek at S.R. 1531 (Fox Mtn. Rd.)
4. White Oak Creek at S.R. 1322 (Moore Rd.)
5. Horse Creek at S.R. 1153 (Skyuka Rd.) (North Pacolet River
watershed)
6. Horse Creek at S.R.1516 (River Rd.) (North Pacolet River
watershed)
7. North Pacolet River at S.R.1516 (S. River Rd.)
8. Demannu Creek at S.R. 1140 & R. 9N (Green River watershed)
9. Joel's Creek upstream/Saluda Treatment Plant (North Pacolet
River watershed)
10. Joel's Creek downstream/Saluda. Treatment, Plant (North
Pacolet River watershed)
13. Green River at Hwy 9
14. White Oak Creek at Briar Hill Farm
15. North Pacolet River at Melrose
16. North Pacolet River at Rte 108
17. White Oak. Creek at Weidman's
18. Camp Creek (Green River watershed)

U
Figure 1: Polk County
3 0 3 6 Miles

II. Methodology
Volunteers are provided with instructions about sample collection procedures prior to
- their first sample collection day. Instruction through hands-on experience is, provided by a
VWIN coordinator, and a training manual is given to each volunteer to read.
i
T Polk County stream samples are collected on the fourth Saturday of each month.
Collecting coincident samples from all the sites in the monitoring area greatly reduces
meteorological variability between sites. Therefore, the volunteers are asked to collect samples
Y from the assigned site as close to noon as possible. Water samples are collected in six 250 mL
polyethylene bottles. In order to assure consistent sampling techniques, each bottle is labeled
with the site number and the parameter for which the water from that particular bottle will be
analyzed. Stream water level is used as a surrogate measure of stream flow and is recorded using
bridge markings or bridge -to -water measurements. Other information recorded by the volunteer
can be found in Appendix A which is a copy of the data sheet used by the volunteer.
After collection, the volunteer takes the samples and data sheet to a designated drop point
where the samples are refrigerated. It is the job of the volunteer coordinator to pick up the
_> samples from the drop point and deliver them to the EQI laboratory for analysis Monday
morning. A description of the laboratory analysis methodology is contained in Appendix B. After
analysis, the empty bottles are cleaned in the laboratory and then packed together with a blank
data sheet for use next month.
Various statistical analyses are performed on the data and are intended to:
1) Characterize the water quality of each stream site relative to accepted or established water
quality standards;
2) Compare water quality of each stream site relative to all other sites in the VWIN program;
3) Identify effects of precipitation, stream water level, and seasonality and temporal trends on
water quality, after sufficient data has been collected.
5

III. Results and Discussion
This discussion is based on seven years of data gathered between April, 1993 and March,
2001. However, some sites were added in the past few years and less data is available for
analysis. The more recent sites will be analyzed in this report, but insufficient data -is available
for these sites to include trend analysis. With each additional year of continuous stream
monitoring, trends in water quality become more evident, and a clearer picture of actual
conditions existing in various streams and watersheds is available. Continuing water quality data
collection over time provides updated information on changing conditions. With this information
financial resources and policies can be focussed on areas of greatest concern.
A discussion of the stream sites relative to specific water quality parameters follows. In
order to better understand the parameters, explanations, standards and sources of contamination,
some definitions of units and terms have been provided.
The amount of a substance in water is referred to in units of concentration. Parts per
million (ppm) is equivalent to mg/L. This means that if a substance is reported to have a
concentration of 1 ppm, then there is one milligram of the substance in each liter (1000 grams) of
water. The parameter total suspended solids (TSS) illustrates the weight/volume concept of
concentration. According to the statistical summary data for Polk County (Appendix E), site 1
had a median TSS concentration of 7.6 mg/L which is equivalent to 7:6 ppm. Thus if you filter
one liter of water from site 1 on average you will collect sediments that weigh 7.6 mg. The same
conversion applies for parts per billion (ppb) which is equivalent to micrograms per liter (ug/L).
Concentrations of the VWIN parameters in water samples are compared to normal ambient
levels. Ambient levels are estimates of the naturally occurring concentration ranges of a
substance. For instance, the ambient level of copper inmost streams is less than 1 ug/L (1 ppb).
Ambient water quality standards, on the other hand, are used to judge acceptable concentrations.
The ambient water quality standard for Ammonia Nitrogen to protect trout populations is 1.0
mg/L, but the normal ambient level for most trout waters is about 0.1 mg/L.
A classification grade was assigned to each site based on the results of analysis. This
4 report shows site specific grades for each parameter for the three year period from April, 1998
-3 through March, 2001 (Table 2). Using only the past three years of data allows streams to show
the most current water quality status. Thus, streams that may improve water quality as a result of
newly implemented management practices will reflect improvement in the grade. Likewise
streams where water quality has been deteriorating will show lower grades than past years. The
grades are designed to characterize the water quality at each site with regard to individual
parameters. Water quality standards were used where applicable to assess the possible impacts
these levels could have on human health and organisms in the aquatic environment. For example,
j the 7 ppb water quality standard for copper was used to determine grades for the sites. A grade of
"A" would be assigned to a site if, over the last three years, no samples had a concentration that
exceeded this standard. In contrast, due to the detrimental effects decreases in pH can have on the
organisms that live in streams,.a site could receive an "A" if minimum pH value was never lower
than 6.0. Appendix C describes the criteria used for the grading system for each parameter.
R1

Table 2: Classification Grades Based on Parameters and Ranges (4/98-3/O1)
Site
1
2
4
5
6
7
1 8
9
10
13
14
15
16
17
18
pH
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
B
A
A
A
Alkalinity
B
B
B
C
B
B
B
B
B
C
B
C
B
B
C
Turbidity
C
C
`D:
�D `�
C
C
C
A.
C
A
C
C
C
C
(D
Total Suspended Solids
C
A
B
A.
B
B
A
B
A
A
B
B
A
(0'1
Conductivity
C
C
C
B
C.
(D�
C
C
C
B
C
B
B
C
B
Copper
A
A
B
B
A
C
B
B
B
B
A
A
A
A
B
Lead w
A
A
A
B
A
B
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Zinc
B
A
A
A
A
A
A
B
B
A
A
A
A
A
A
Orthophosphate
B'
C
C
B
C
(Da,
C
C
A
C
C
B
C
C
Ammonia Nitrogen
A
A
A
A
A
B
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Nitrate Nitrogen
A
B
B
A
A
A
B
C
C
A
B
A
A
B
A
Grades
A= excellent
B= good
C= fair
D= �poo

Appendix D is a list of all WIN stream sites monitored in Western North Carolina
indexed and ranked using the grading system previously discussed shown in Table 2. This
indexing system was developed to facilitate comparisons of specific problem areas such as
sediment, nutrients, or chemical and heavy metal pollutants. Parameters were grouped into these
three fields. and number grades assigned to each parameter (A=100, B=75, C=50, D=25). The
i
.numbers were added and the total divided by the number of parameters in the dimension. For
example, a site with a B in turbidity and a C in total suspended solids would receive a sediment
index of (75 + 50)/2 = 62.5 (rounded to 63). Index ratings for each of the three groupings were
_S
added and the total divided by 3 to determine the overall index rating for each site. A maximum
index of 100 and a minimum of 25 are possible.
It is important and useful to compare sites within the mountain area to understand how
_I water quality from each stream ranks, not only within the county, but within the region. With
this information local governments, organizations, and individuals can compare areas with
similar problems or successes and share information or even develop region -wide plans. It will
also be helpful to note changes in ranking over time as stream water quality improves or
deteriorates relative to the many other mountain streams tested in the WIN program. Many
4 factors such as population density, industrial development, topography, and land use patterns can
affect water quality. All of these factors must be taken into consideration when comparing
stream water quality.
Appendix E contains summarized statistical data collected over the course of this study. It
is a list of minimum, maximum, and median concentrations or values over the past three years
and also includes the median values for each site over the entire period of the study. With this
expanded information, changes in median values over time can be seen.
The data from 167 sites (the newest sites are not included) in seven Western North
-" Carolina counties in the WIN program are used in this report to compare water quality from
the stream sites in Polk County with water quality from the mountain region in general. Some of
the graphs in this discussion section include averages of median values for all sites analyzed
throughout the region. It should be noted that, although there are always some sites in each
county that are relatively unaffected by human activities, most WIN sites are generally chosen
to measure the effects of human activities on stream water quality. For this reason, forest streams
are under -represented and the averages in all areas are weighted somewhat toward streams that
experience various degrees of pollution.
A statistical analysis of the effects of stream water level, temporal changes, and
seasonality on the water quality parameters at individual sites has also been included in this
discussion. This analysis is used to determine if changes in concentrations or levels of a
parameter relate to changes in water levels, (i.e. flow), increases or decreases over time (i.e.
temporal change), and changes of the seasons in Western North Carolina (i.e. seasonality).
Trends are observed in the data and interpretations of what might be causing the trends are
suggested. Trends are considered significant if the p-value is less than 0.05. The p-value is the
t probability of obtaining as much trend as observed in the data if, in fact, there was no true
underlying trend. Statistical trend analysis has been carried out on the sites with four or more

years of monitoring. Appendix F is a summary of trends related to flow and time by site
organized by watershed. Appendix G shows trends related to season. Discussion of the more
recently established sites will be limited to observances from the past two to four years of
monitoring.
A. Acidity (pH) and Alkalinity: pH is used to measure acidity. The pH is a measure of the
concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. If the value of the measurement is less than 7.0, the
solution is acidic. If the value is greater than 7.0, the solution is alkaline (more commonly
referred to as basic). The ambient water quality standard is between 6.0 and 9.0. Natural pH in
! area streams are generally in the range of 6.5 - 7.2. Values below 6.5 may indicate the effects of
acid rain or other acidic inputs, and values above 7.5 may be indicative of an industrial discharge.
Because organisms in aquatic environments have adapted to the pH conditions of natural
waters, even small pH fluctuations can interfere with the reproduction of those organisms or can
even kill them outright. The pH is an important water quality parameter because it has the
potential to seriously affect aquatic ecosystems. It can also be a useful indicator of specific types
of discharges.
Alkalinity is the measure of the acid neutralizing capacity of a water or soil. Waters with
high alkalinity are considered to be protected (well buffered) against acidic inputs. Streams that
are supplied with a buffer are able to absorb and neutralize hydrogen ions introduced by acidic
sources such as acid rain, decomposing organic matter and industrial effluent. For example,
water can leach calcium carbonate (a natural buffer). from limestone soils or bedrock and then
move into a stream, providing that stream with a buffer. As a result, pH levels in the stream are
held constant despite acidic inputs. Unfortunately, natural buffering materials can become
y depleted due to excessive acidification. In that case, further acidic inputs can cause severe
decreases in stream pH. Potential future stream acidification problems can be anticipated by
- - alkalinity measurement. There is no legal standard for alkalinity, but waters with an alkalinity
below 30 mg/1 are considered to have low alkalinity. Western NC streams tend to have low
alkalinity because the granite bedrock does not contain many acid -neutralizing compounds such
Y as calcium carbonate.
Figures 2 and 3 show median pH and alkalinity levels compared with the average median
for the seven -county VWIN region. In the past three years only site 15 on the North Pacolet
River at Melrose (the most upstream site) has ever exhibited a pH below 6.0. In March, 2001 the
j - pH at that site was 5.3. Normal pH for site 15 is 7.2 and most sites in the Pacolet River
watershed show median pH levels at around 7.1 which is the average median for the region.
Lowest median pH of the sites in the county are from the Green River and highest are from the
upstream site on Joel's Creek.
a All sites exhibit median alkalinity levels below 30 mg/L, but the lowest median levels are
from the sites on the Green River, Camp Creek, and the most upstream site on the North Pacolet
River. In fact, most of the sites in the Green River and North Pacolet River watersheds show
1 median levels below the regional average. The White Oak Creek watershed shows all sites with
median levels at or above the regional average. Headwaters of the Green and North Pacolet
Rivers are at higher elevations in areas that may be receiving more rainfall. Soils may also be
- more acidic in those areas.
4

7.4
Green River White Oak Creek North Pacolet River watershed
watershed
7.3
7.2
regional i verage median
7.1
x
6
7
6.9
6.8
6.7
ci
rj
0
0
0
0
0
0
A
0"
0"
o
o"
o
0
0
�
8
8
00 E
m
m
m
m
m
?o
a
a
as
= x
�
r
uS d
Figure 2: Median pH levels for each site in Polk County compared with the average median
for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina
30
25
-
20
0
I
' U
ti 15
a
E
10
i
5
Green River
watershed
While Oak Creek
North Pacolet Riverwatershed
regional average median
0
U
U
U
U"
U
U
U
E
C
Y
Y
Y
Y
0 0
0
0"
0"
E
U U
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a a
s
�
. 9
m m
o 0
a
z
z
x x
z
z
z
z
6 16
Figure 3: Median alkalinity levels for each site in Polk County compared with the average
median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina
WE

Several sites show pH and alkalinity levels decreasing as water level rises. This is a
normal occurrence as rainwater generally has a low pH. Site 5 on Horse Creek, however, shows
i pH and alkalinity levels increasing as water'level rises. This site exhibits several unusual trends
- related to flow. Some sites also show pH and alkalinity levels increasing over time. This is
actually a regional trend and it is difficult to determine the influence the long term drought has
" had on this trend. No seasonal trends are evident with pH, but a few sites show alkalinity levels
typically highest in summer or fall and lowest in winter or spring. This is not unexpected as
more rainwater generally makes its way directly into streams in winter than in summer.
B. Turbidity and Total Suspended Solids (TSS): Turbidity is a measurement of the visual
clarity of a water sample and indicates the presence of fine suspended particulate matter
including soil particles, algae, microbes, and other substances. The unit used to measure turbidity
is NTU (nephelometric turbidity units) which measures the absorption and reflection of light
when it is passed through a sample of water. Because particles can have a wide variety of sizes,
shapes and densities, there is only an approximate relationship between the turbidity of a sample
and the concentration (i.e. weight) of the particulate. matter present. This is why there are separate
tests for NTU turbidity and suspended solids.
Turbidity is an important parameter for assessing the viability of a stream for trout
propagation. High turbidity reduces the amount of light penetrating the water. Suspended
particles can clog fish gills and affect egg and larval development. Particles can settle on the
bottom and smother fish eggs and benthic macroinvertebrates. Trout eggs can withstand only
small amounts of silt before hatching success is greatly reduced. For this reason, the standard for
trout -designated waters is 10 NTU while the standard to protect other aquatic life is 50 NTU.
` TSS quantifies solids by weight and is heavily influenced by stream flow and land
disturbing activities. Mountain streams in undisturbed forested areas remain clear even after a
r moderately heavy rainfall event, but streams in areas with disturbed soil will become highly
-' turbid after even a relatively light rainfall. Deposition of silt into a stream bottom can bury and
destroy the complex bottom habitat. Consequently, the habitat for most species of aquatic insects,
snails, and crustaceans is destroyed by stream siltation. The absence of these species reduces the
diversity of the ecosystem. In addition, small amounts of bottom -deposited sediment can severely
reduce the hatch rate of trout eggs. There is no legal standard for TSS, but values below 30.0
mg/1 are generally considered low, and values above 100 mg/l are considered high. A good
measure of the upstream land use conditions is how much TSS rises after a heavy rainfall.
Elevated turbidity levels and suspended solids concentrations occur where there is soil erosion,
waste discharge, urban runoff, eroding stream banks, and/or excessive algae growth.
Figures 4 and 5 show median turbidity levels and total suspended solids concentrations
for each site compared with the average median for the seven -county WIN region. Site 13 on
the Green River just downstream from the Lake Adger dam shows the most consistently good
water clarity and low sediment concentrations. This site has not shown increased sediment
concentrations at any monitoring event in the past three years. In contrast, site 5 on Horse Creek
_- at Skyuka Road consistently exhibits very poor water clarity and elevated sediment
concentrations. This is the upstream site on Horse Creek near Columbus. The downstream site
on Horse Creek exhibits much less of a problem with stream sedimentation. Most of the
sediment likely settles in the stream bed before reaching the downstream site. However, even if
11

16
14
12
10
z
z
8
6
4
2
0
Green River
watershed
While Oak Creek
regional average median
North Pacolet River watershed
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U
U U
E
O
O
O
O
O
m
o
m
o 0
E
m
m
m
m
m
cb
Figure 4: Median turbidity levels for each site in Polk County compared with the average
median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina
20
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pacolel River watershed
18
watershed
16
y
v
14
o
-o
V
12
a
c
10
N
lo-
8
E
g
regional average median
4
2
0
NU
U
U
U
U U U
U
U U U U
W 0
C
`m
(!
A
O
A 0 m
O O O
N
O
0 p
E
d
z z z vS
b ri
N } '
Figure 5: Median total suspended solids concentrations for each site in Polk County
compared with the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western
North _Carolina
12

- problems are remedied at the upstream site, -'the excessive input of sediment in the upstream area
will likely result in many years of stream sedimentation along Horse Creek as the sediment
gradually moves down the creek bed.
— Two other sites, Camp Creek and White Oak Creek at Houston Road, show median _
-sediment concentrations greater than average. Both of these sites also exhibit elevated median
f turbidity levels. Median turbidity levels are also quite high at the site on Demannu Creek and at
the most downstream site on White Oak Creek at Moore Road. All of the sites mentioned; as
- well as all of the other sites on White Oak Creek and on the North Pacolet River have exhibited
'4
excessively elevated turbidity levels during rains. Trend analysis shows turbidity and/or
sediment concentration at the sites on White Oak Creek at Fox Mountain Road and at Moore
Road as well as the site on Demannu Creek and- on the North Pacolet River at South River Road
to be closely related to rainfall events.
Polk County is mainly a rural county. The continued sedimentation of certain streams
over several years point to a regular source. Much of the sediment is likely from agricultural
areas or from stream bank erosion. It is also possible that some of these streams have collected
heavy loads of sediment in past years that continue to muddy the waters years after the source of
the sediment has been eliminated. The first step toward improving water quality in these streams
} will be to locate the source or sources of sediment.
C. Conductivity and Heavy Metals (Copper, Lead, and Zinc): Conductivity is measured in
micromhos per centimeter (umho/cm) and is used to measure the ability of a water sample to
conduct an electrical current. Absolutely pure water will not conduct an electrical current. When
a sample contains dissolved solids or salts, these salts are separated into positively and negatively
charged particles called ions. A water sample that contains ions will conduct electricity, and the
concentration of dissolved ions in a sample determines the degree of conductivity. Thus,
measuring the conductivity of a sample represents the amount of dissolved salts in the water.
There is no legal. standard for conductivity, but potable water has a range from 50-1500
umho/cm, while industrial wastewater may have levels above 10,000 umho/cm. There are
differences in average conductivity levels within the mountain area analyzed in the VWIN
program, but the average mean for the region is 61.5 umhos/cm. Because land -disturbing
activities tend to elevate conductivity readings, conductivity is usually lowest in stream
headwaters. -
Metals are found naturally occurring in surface waters in minute quantities as a result of
chemical weathering and soil leaching. However, concentrations greater than those occurring
J naturally can be toxic to human and aquatic organisms. Elevated levels are often indicative of
industrial pollution, wastewater discharge, and urban runoff, especially from areas with high
- concentrations of automobiles. Metalsintroduced into the atmosphere may be carried to land by
precipitation and dry fallout. Because metals sorb readily to many sediment types, they may
easily enter streams in areas with high sediment runoff.
Copper: The standard of 7.0 ug/L has been established to protect aquatic life. Inmost areas,
ambient levels are usually below 1.0 ug/L. Wear of brake linings has been shown to contribute
concentrations of copper, lead, and zinc; copper has a relatively high content in brake linings.
Copper is also present in leaded, unleaded, and diesel fuel emissions.
13
J

Lead: A standard of 25 ug/L has been established to protect aquatic wildlife, while the normal
ambient level is usually below 1.0 ug/L. Lead may be present in industrial wastewater and was
once common in road runoff from the use of leaded gasoline. Roadside soils still generally
contain high lead levels, resulting in elevated stream concentrations if these soils are subject to
erosion.
Zinc: The surface water standard is 50 ug/L. Typical ambient levels of zinc are approximately
5.0 ug/L or less. Zinc is a major metal component of tire rubber, brake linings, and galvanized
crash barriers. Studies have been conducted linking this to zinc contamination from urban
runoff. Because zinc is a by-product of the auto tire vulcanization process as well as the
galvanization of iron, its presence in water may also result from industrial or domestic
wastewater.
Figure 6 shows median conductivity levels at each site compared to the average median
for the region. Because Polk County is largely rural, there are far fewer problems with elevated
conductivity levels and heavy metals concentrations from industry and road runoff than in the
counties in the VWIN program that have more extensive urban areas. Site 7 on the North Pacolet
River at South River Road, however, falls regularly below the regional average in rating of these
parameters. Conductivity levels are above 100 umhos/cm most of the time and copper
concentrations exceeded state standards three of the twelve monitoring events during the past
year. This site is downstream from the Saluda and Tryon wastewater treatment plants and,
perhaps, is also receiving some industrial wastewater effluent and urban runoff from the Tryon
area.
Sites 9 and 10 on Joel's Creek also rate somewhat below average for the region.
Conductivity levels are normally higher than the regional average, occasionally exceeding 100
umhos/cm, and median zinc concentrations are also higher than average, although neither site has
exceeded zinc water quality standards in the past three years. In the past year, both sites
_ exceeded the copper water quality standard once. Other sites that exceeded the copper water
quality standard once in the past year include site 4 on White Oak Creek at Moore Road, site 5 on
Horse Creek at Skyuka Road, site 8 on Demannu Creek, and site 18 on Camp Creek.
_ Site 4 on White Oak Creek at Moore Road and site 7 on the North Pacolet River at South
River Road show a significant correlation between stream flow and heavy metals concentrations.
As concentrations increase with flow, road runoff may be a significant contributor of heavy
metals at these two sites. Only a few sites in Polk County show a seasonal correlation with
conductivity levels and heavy metals concentrations. Of those that do, most indicate summer
with highest levels and winter with lowest. This may be related to the increased road traffic in
summer as well as generally lower stream levels during the summer months. Pollutants may
become more concentrated when water levels decrease.
D. Nutrients (Orthophosphate, Ammonia -Nitrogen (NH3), and Nitrate/Nitrite-Nitrogen
(NO3/NO2): Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for aquatic plants and algae. It occurs naturally in
water and is, in fact, usually the limiting nutrient in most aquatic systems. In other words, plant
growth is restricted by.the availability of phosphorus in the system. Excessive phosphorus inputs
stimulate the growth of algae and diatoms on rocks in a stream and cause periodic algae blooms
in reservoirs downstream. Slippery green mats of algae in a stream, or blooms of algae in a lake
14

120
1
00
Figure 6: Median conductivity levels for each site in Polk County compared with the
average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina
15

are usually the result of an introduction of excessive phosphorus into the system that has caused
algae or aquatic plants to grow at abnormally high rates. Eutrophication is the term used to
describe this growth of algae due to an over abundance of a limiting nutrient. Sources of
phosphorus include soil, disturbed land, wastewater treatment plants, failing septic systems, and
runoff from fertilized crops, lawns, and livestock waste storage areas. Phosphates have an
attraction for soil particles and phosphorus concentrations can increase greatly during rains where
surface runoff is a problem. In this report orthophosphate (PO4) is reported in the form of
-4 orthophosphate (PO4). To isolate phosphorus (P) from the measurement, divide the
reported amount by three.
T Orthophosphate is a measure of the dissolved phosphorus which is immediately
available to plants or algae. Orthophosphate is also referred to as phosphorus in solution. There is
no legal water quality standard, but generally levels must be below 0.05 mg/l to prevent
downstream eutrophication.
Ammonia -Nitrogen (NH3-N) is contained in the remains of decaying wastes of plants
and animals. Some species of bacteria and fungi decompose these wastes and NH3 is formed. The
normal ambient level is approximately 0.10 mg/1, and elevated levels of NH3 can be toxic to fish.
Although the actual toxicity depends on the pH of the water, the proposed- ambient standard to
protect trout waters is 1.0 mg/L in summer and 2.0 mg/L in winter. The most probable sources of
ammonia nitrogen are agricultural runoff, livestock farming, septic drainage and sewage
f treatment plant discharges. In Western North Carolina, streams with extensive trout farming may
also show elevated ammonia -nitrogen concentrations.
Like phosphorus, nitrate/nitrite-nitrogen (NO3/NO2-N) serves as an algal nutrient
contributing to excessive stream and reservoir algae growth. In addition, nitrate is highly toxic to
infants and the unborn causing inhibition of oxygen transfer in the blood stream at high doses.
This condition is known as "blue -baby" disease. This is the basis for the 10 mg/L national
drinking water standard. The ambient standard to protect aquatic ecosystems is 10 mg/L as well.
The most probable sources are septic drainage, fertilizer runoff from agricultural land and
domestic lawns, and animal waste. Nitrates from land sources end up in streams more quickly
than other nutrients such as phosphorus because they dissolve in water more readily and can
travel with ground water into streams. Consequently, nitrates are a good indicator of the
possibility of sources of pollution from sewage or animal waste during dry weather.
Figure 7 *shows median orthophosphate concentrations at each site compared with the
average median for the region. Wastewater treatment plants often have a very significant
influence on orthophosphate concentrations. Zinc -orthophosphate is often added to the drinking
�f water supply of towns and cities to protect pipes from leaching metals into the water. However,
the orthophosphate is not removed in the wastewater treatment process. Orthophosphate is not a.
toxic substance and poses no threat to human health, but excessive amounts in surface water can
_= cause excessive algae and plant growth to occur.
All three sites that show the highest median concentration of orthophosphate are
downstream from wastewater treatment plants. The site on White Oak Creek just downstream
from the Columbus wastewater treatment plant (site 14) shows the least influence from
wastewater with only slightly increased concentrations at the site closest to the wastewater
treatment plant. The Tryon and Saluda wastewater treatment plants show a much greater
influence. Orthophosphate concentrations are about five times greater at the site downstream
16

0.7
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pacolet River watershed
watershed
0.6
0.5
R
r
w 0.4
0
0 0
C
0 0.3
rn
E
0.2
regional a
erage median
0.1
0
U
U U U U
U U
U U
U U
d
7 N Y Y Y
a m O O O
Y Y
O O
W N
0 0
pN
o
Nd
o
U
a)M
y 12
0
l0
v
m
E m d
d�_
m
m
m o
a
z
U%co
a
z
m
a
z
r;
o
x x
N
r
Figure 7: Median orthophosphate concentrations for each site in Polk County compared
with the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North
Carolina
17

from the Saluda plant on Joel's Creek than at the site upstream from the plant. Joel's Creek is a
relatively small stream and the effluent may not be sufficiently diluted. Once Joel's Creek flows
into the North Pacolet River much more dilution water is available and orthophosphate
concentrations are close to normal at the next downstream site on the North Pacolet at Melrose.
Orthophosphate concentrations have increased greatly in recent years at the downstream site on
Joel's Creek. With the long term drought, water levels are likely much lower than average and
the reduced dilution factor in an already small stream means that a larger percentage of the
stream water is wastewater effluent from the plant. As trend analysis shows orthophosphate
I concentrations increasing as flow increases, it is likely that there are other sources of
orthophosphate to Joel's Creek besides the wastewater treatment plant.
Effluent from the Tryon wastewater treatment plant flows into Vaughn Creek which is
not monitored. However, the North Pacolet River is monitored downstream from the confluence
with Vaughn Creek and orthophosphate concentrations at this site (site 7) are abnormally high.
This is in spite of the much greater flow from the North Pacolet. In perspective, however,
median concentrations of orthophosphate at site 7 are slightly lower than at the Mud Creek site in
Henderson County downstream from the Hendersonville wastewater treatment plant and
significantly lower than the concentrations on the French Broad River downstream from the
Asheville wastewater treatment plant. Also, while many other sites downstream from
wastewater treatment plants have shown significant increases in concentrations over time,
probably related to the long term drought, median concentrations at the North Pacolet site show
no change. Most sites in Polk County and in the mountain region have been showing increases
- over time. This is particularly true of sites in populated and agricultural areas. With the drought,
more organic matter may be collecting in the streams and nutrient concentrations are less diluted.
Figures 8 and 9 show median ammonia -nitrogen and nitrate/nitrite-nitrogen
concentrations at each site compared with the average median for the region. Nitrogen levels are
not a significant issue at most sites in Polk County. No site has exceeded state water quality
standards for either ammonia or nitrate levels in the past three years. Median concentrations at
- all but one site are below the regional average for ammonia -nitrogen and only three sites exceed
the regional average for nitrate -nitrogen. Site 4, the most downstream site on White Oak Creek,
slightly exceeds median levels for both ammonia and nitrate -nitrogen, but no great extremes have
-I been recorded. Sites 9 and 10 on Joel's Creek show a much greater level of nitrate -nitrogen than
the regional average. A survey of this stream would be useful to determine if there are sources
of fertilizer or animal waste to the creek.
As mentioned, trend analysis indicates an increase in nutrient concentrations over time at
many sites. Site 4 on White Oak Creek shows a correlation in all nutrient concentrations with
flow and over time. Concentrations increase as flow increases, and are increasing over time.
This site is likely one that is affected by runoff from agricultural areas .and possibly from roads.
Sediment and heavy metal concentrations also increase with flow at this site. Site 1 on White
Oak Creek at Houston Road also shows all three nutrient parameters, as well as many other
parameters, increasing over time. More than just the drought may be a factor in the declining
- water quality at this site.
Few sites show seasonal trends for nutrient concentrations, although all sites that are
showing a trend in nitrate concentrations indicate fall to be the season of lowest concentrations.
Site 4 on White Oak Creek, however, shows the same trend of all three nutrients with highest
m
,_}

0.12
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pecolet River watershed
watershed
regional average median
Figure 8: Median ammonia -nitrogen concentrations at each site in Polk County compared
with the average median for all sites the the VWIN monitoring region in Western North
Carolina
i.o
1.4
12
e
m
4
m
� 0.6
Z 0.6
d
m
E
0.4
0.2
0
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pacolet Riverwatershed
watershed
regional average median
E
m
O�
c
m
E
m
E
O
16
O
m
O
O
O
O
Figure 9: Median nitrate/nitrite-nitrogen concentrations for each site in Polk County
compared with the average median for all sites the the VWIN monitoring region in
Western North Carolina
19

concentrations in summer. There appears to be a significant source of nutrients in this section of
White Oak Creek that is more active in the summer.
20

IV. Summary and Conclusions
~� Chemical analysis of samples collected at Polk County sites are intended to characterize
the water quality relative to the. parameters established by the Volunteer Water Information
Network program. Information from the program can be used by concerned groups and
individuals to help identify problems and evaluate solutions. Characterizing the water quality of
the county is a complex task, and interpretation of the data can be difficult due to many factors.
With continued long term monitoring, however, various trends become more evident. The
VWIN program is currently monitoring over 190 sites in nine Western North Carolina counties.
A comparison of Polk County stream sites with all other sites in the program is presented in
Appendix E. Summarized observations and trends for Polk County stream sites are presented
below. Summaries of trends are presented in Appendices G, H, and I.
As discussed in section 3 of the report, the ranking system has recently been altered to
' allow grouping by parameters into categories. This system permits comparison of specific water
quality problems such as stream sedimentation, urban runoff of chemicals and heavy metals, and
nutrient loading. Table 3 is a summary of ranking of Polk County sites by water quality issues
and by watershed. With this .information it is easier to focus on specific areas with related water
quality problems.
Polk County is largely rural and lightly populated. There are three small towns in the
county, Saluda, Tryon, and Columbus. Much of the county is forested, but also logged. The
— most populated areas of the county and those used mainly for agriculture are in the White Oak
Creek and North Pacolet River watersheds. The Green River watershed is more heavily forested,
but development is increasing in the area.
Stream sedimentation and poor water clarity are a consistent water quality problem in all
three watersheds analyzed in Polk County. Although drought conditions over the past few years
have resulted in fewer samples collected during heavy rains, there is .still a significant correlation
between rains and stream sedimentation at several sites. Nutrient loading is also a particular
problem in certain areas. In this case, lower water levels during drought conditions have resulted
j in higher concentrations of nutrients, particularly where there is a point .source.
Note that White Oak Creek is actually in the Green River watershed, but will be treated
separately here as it is a major drainage area of the county.
The Green River Watershed
Includes Demannu Creek, Camp Creek, and the Green River
Demannu Creek follows Garrett Street northeast and passes on the north side of the Polk
County landfill. At Hwy 9 it turns and follows on the east side of the highway north and empties
into the Green River at a popular swimming hole just downstream from the dam on Lake Adger.
Demannu Creek rates average. Stream sedimentation continues to be an issue at this site. Water
I clarity is poorer than average streams analyzed in the region and has been extremely poor during
rains. The same problems also exist at the site on Camp Creek. Both median turbidity and
sediment levels are higher than. average at this site. Turbidity levels often exceed the trout
i standard at this site. The site also has the second highest median sediment concentrations in the
21

Table 3: Index Ratings for Polk County Monitoring Sites
site #
site name
sediment
metals
nutrients
overall
VWIN a WNC Regional Average
70
81
78
76
White Oak Creek Watershed
1
White Oak Creek at Houston Road
50
81
92
74
2
White Oak Creek at Fox Mountain Road
75
88
75
79
14
White Oak Creek at Briar Hill Farm
75
88
75
79
17
White Oak Creek at Weidman's
75
88
75
79
4
White Oak Creek at Moore Road
50
81
75
69
Average for this grouping
65
85
78
76
percent sites below regional average
40%
0%
80%
40%
Green River Watershed
18
Camp Creek
25
88
83
65
8
Demannu Creek
63
81
75
73
13
Green River at Highway 9
100
88
100
'96
Average for this grouping
63
86
86
78
percent sites below regional average 1
66%
0%
33%
66%
North Pacolet River Watershed
9
Joel's Creek upstream
100
75
67
81
10
Joel's Creek downstream
63
75
58
65
5
Horse Creek at Skyuka Road
25
81
92
66
6
Horse Creek at River Road
75
88
83
82
15
North Pacolet River at Melrose
63
94
83
80
16
North Pacolet River at Rte 108
63
94
92
83
7
North Pacolet River at S. River Road
63
63
67
64
Average for this grouping
65
81
77
74
percent sites below regional average
1 71%
43%
43%
43%
Overall County Rating
Average for All Sites.
64, 84 80 76
percent sites below regional average
60% 20% 63% 47%
22

Polk County program. Largely as a result of the sedimentation problems in Camp Creek, the
stream is rated below average. Camp Creek flows into the Green River west of Saluda.
Preventing sediment from entering Lake Adger via these upstream tributaries is important in
- prolonging the life of the lake.
The site on the Green River is the only site in Polk County to receive an excellent rating.
This site is just below the Lake Adger dam. There are three additional sites on the Green River
in Henderson County, and they are also rated excellent. Stream sedimentation is not a significant
j problem at this site and all other parameters show median levels usually well below the regional
average. The only significant increases in any parameter in the past year occurred in January,
2001 when conductivity, levels were unusually elevated.
The White Oak Creek Watershed
Includes five sites on White Oak Creek
There is remarkable consistency in water quality throughout this watershed for most
i parameters. Only water clarity, stream sediment concentrations, and phosphorus concentrations
J change to. any degree from upstream to downstream. For this reason, four of the five sites all rate
average. Only the most downstream site at Moore Road rates below average. Strangely, it is
the most upstream and the most downstream sites that exhibit the poorest water clarity and most
significant stream sedimentation on any given monitoring day. But all sites have exhibited
almost equally poor water clarity and elevated sediment levels during rain events. Phosphorus
concentrations increase slightly at the site just downstream from the Columbus wastewater
treatment plant, but return to more normal concentrations by the time the stream reaches the most
downstream site at Moore Road. This treatment plant is not as significant a contributor of
nutrients as are many other wastewater treatment plants in the region.
There is reason for concern regarding the most upstream site at Houston Road. Trend
analysis shows almost all pollutant parameters increasing over time. Although some of these
j trends may be related to lower water levels, others are not. For example, turbidity levels are
increasing in spite of less rainfall. Land use changes occurring in this area may be affecting
water quality. Increased bank erosion or changes in agricultural practices may also be a factor.
The most downstream site at Moore Road shows all sediment, heavy metals, and nutrient
parameters increasing as water level rises. This is a convincing argument for non -point source
pollution from erosion and runoff. Median turbidity levels are quite higher than average for the
region at this site. The site also shows several pollutant parameters increasing over time,
including all nutrients. Livestock waste may be an issue on White Oak Creek if there are any
Jareas where animals have access to the creek or are kept nearby.
The North Pacolet River Watershed
Includes two sites on Horse Creek, two sites on Joel's Creek,
and three sites on the North Pacolet River
23

The North Pacolet River flows east from the southwestern edge of Polk County south of
Saluda, passes north of Tryon, and then flows down into South Carolina. Joel's Creek flows
south from Saluda and into the North Pacolet River near the Henderson/Polk County line. Horse
Creek flows south from the Columbus area and into the North Pacolet River downstream from all
three sites on the river. 'Most sites in this watershed rank good, but there are some significant
upstream/downstream differences in water quality for all three streams.
The upstream site on Joel's Creek receives a good rating and the downstream site
receives a below average rating. Median pollutant concentrations of almost all parameters
measured increase slightly and some increase greatly between the upstream and downstream
sites. Water clarity at the downstream site is poorer and nutrient concentrations increase greatly.
In recent years, orthophosphate concentrations have increased significantly at the downstream
site. With the long term drought, water levels are likely much lower than average and the
reduced dilution factor in an already small stream means that a larger percentage of the stream
water is coming from the Saluda wastewater treatment plant effluent. Since trend analysis shows
ti orthophosphate concentrations increasing as flow increases, there may be other sources of
orthophosphate to Joel's Creek besides the wastewater treatment plant. It is difficult to
determine in this case since the water level may be affected by the flow of effluent. In any case,
this stream may be having a more difficult time assimilating wastewater effluent during dry
weather than larger streams such as White Oak Creek. Once Joel's Creek flows into the North
j Pacolet River the effluent has little effect on water quality of the river.
- Horse Creek shows very different trends. In this case it is the upstream site that rates
below average and the downstream site rates good. Stream sedimentation is a serious problem
at the upstream site. Few sites in the VWIN study region in Western North Carolina show
median turbidity levels and suspended solids concentrations as high as those at the upstream
Horse Creek site. Special attention should be given to the upstream area to locate potential
erosion sites and unstable stream banks. As the downstream site shows a much lesser degree of
sedimentation, most of the sediment is likely settling in the stream bed before reaching this point.
However, even if problems are remedied at the upstream site, the excessive input of sediment in
the upstream area will likely result in many years of stream sedimentation along Horse Creek as
the sediment gradually moves down the creek bed.
The two upstream sites on the North Pacolet River at -Melrose and at Route 108 rate
good, but the most downstream site at South River Road rates below average. Although the
waters remain clear at all three sites most of the time, all three have shown vulnerability to
stream sedimentation during rains. The greatest differences between the upstream and
downstream sites are with conductivity levels and heavy metal and phosphorus concentrations.
The greatest influence on the difference in water quality between the upstream sites and
the downstream site probably are the result of pollutants entering from Vaughn Creek and the
Tryon area. Industrial and domestic wastewater effluent and urban runoff are likely affecting
conductivity levels and heavy metal and phosphorus concentrations. Although phosphorus
concentrations are abnormally elevated at the South River Road site, it is interesting to note that,
while most other sites in the region and particularly those downstream from wastewater treatment
plants show phosphorus concentrations increasing over time, at this site they have remained
stable. Also, in comparison with some other sites affected by wastewater effluent, median
0

concentrations of orthophosphate at this site are now slightly lower than at the Mud Creek site in
Henderson County downstream from the Hendersonville wastewater treatment plant and
significantly lower than the concentrations on the -French Broad River downstream from the
Asheville wastewater treatment plant. As all three heavy metals concentrations show increases
related to rains, runoff from urban areas and roads is an issue that should be addressed in the near
future.
Polk County has many beautiful waterways that are well worth protecting. The Green
River is a tremendous natural resource that is highly valued for recreation, wildlife, and for its
natural beauty. The North Pacolet River gorge in the southwestern section of the county is
another spectacular sight that helps make Polk County such an attractive area. Protecting these
natural wonders will continue to be important for both residents and visitors and for the economy
of the county.
Unlike most counties in the region, there are no sites monitored in Polk County that have
received a poor rating. But there are sites that exhibit significant problems that deserve attention
_ to prevent further degradation. The most widespread water quality problem in the region and in
Polk County is stream sedimentation. Continued growth and development can have serious
detrimental effects on water quality if proper controls are not maintained. Management of
—i erosion and runoff from construction sites, roads, and agricultural areas is vital in preventing
stream sedimentation. Controlling runoff from growing urban areas will be important in
preventing toxic substances such as heavy metals from destroying aquatic organisms. Proper
management of animal waste and wastewater is important in preventing algae blooms on area
rivers and ponds. Prevention of stream degradation is much easier and more economical than
correcting problems after they have occurred
25

APPENDIX A: Sample Data Sheet
Volunteer Water Information Network
Po& County
1) Sample Site Number
2) Sample Site Name
3) Collection Date
4) Time Collected
5) Temperature at drop-off site (in cooler)
6) Volunteer's Name
7)Volunteer's Phone# &/or Email:
(please provide current mailing address if there has been a change)
4 8 ) Water Flow Rate (please circle one) Very High High Normal Low
9 ) Type of Rain in past 3 days (please circle one) Heavy Medium Light Dry'
10) Stream Flow Measurement feet inches
11) General Observations (turbidity, waste matter, dead animals
upstream, anything out of the ordinary)
Parameter Results (For Lab Use Only)
Parameter and Result Date of Analysis
NH3 mg/L
NO3 mg/L
Pt -total sample: / mg/L
Po mg/L
Turb NTU
TSS g/250mL
Cond umhos/cm
Alk mL acid
Cu ppb
Zn ppb
Pb ppb
pH '
Al

J
Appendix B: ' Laboratory Analysis
Samples are kept refrigerated until they are delivered to the EQI laboratory on the
Monday morning following Saturday collections. Methods follow EPA or Standard Methods for
the Examination of Water and Wastewater- 1 8th Edition techniques and the EQI laboratory is
certified by the State of North Carolina for water and wastewater analysis of orthophosphate,
total phosphorus, ammonia -nitrogen, turbidity, total suspended solids, pH, conductivity, copper,
lead, and zinc. All samples are kept refrigerated until the time of analysis. Analysis for nitrogen,
I phosphorus, pH, turbidity and conductivity are completed within 48 hours of the collection time.
As pH cannot be tested on site, the holding time for pH is exceeded. When immediate analysis
does not occur, such as for total phosphorus and heavy metals, the samples are preserved by
acidification and kept refrigerated.
Explanations about the procedures and instruments used in the EQI lab are quite technical
in nature and will be omitted from this report. Detailed information is available on request. The
detection limits of the instruments used have been provided.
Approximate Analytical Detection Limits
for VWIN Water Quality Parameters.
PARAMETER
DETECTION LIMIT
UNITS
Ammonia Nitrogen
0.02
ppm
Nitrate Nitrogen
0.1
ppm
Total Phosphorus
0.02
ppm
Orthophosphate
0.02
ppm
Alkalinity
1.0
ppm
Total Suspended Solids
4.0
ppm
Conductivity
10.0
umho/cm
Turbidity
1.0
NTU
Copper
2.0
ppb
Zinc
20.0
ppb
Lead
2.0
ppb
pH
n/a
n/a
W

Appendix C: Parameters and Ranges for Stream Quality Classifications
pH -
Grade A= never less than 6.0
Grade B= below 6.0 in less than 10% of samples, never below 5.0
Grade C= never less than 5.0
Grade D= at least one sample was less 5.0.
Alkalinity
i Grade A= median greater than 30 mg/L (indicates little vulnerability to
acidic inputs)
_ Grade B= median 20-30 mg/L (indicates moderate vulnerability to acidic inputs)
Grade C median less than 20 mg/L (considered to be vulnerable to acidic
inputs).
Grade D= median less than 15 ppm (very vulnurable to acidic inputs)
Turbidity -
Grade A= median less than 5 NTU and exceeded the standard for trout waters of 10
l NTU in less than 10% of samples, but never exceeded 50 NTU
Grade B= median less than 7.5 NTU and never exceeded the 50 NTU standard
Grade C= median less than 10 NTU and exceeded 50 NTU in less than 10% of
} samples
Grade D= median greater than 10 NTU or exceeded 50 NTU in more than 10%
- of samples.
i
Total Suspended Solids -
--� Grade A= median less than 5 mg/L and maximum less than 100 mg/L - not
measurably disturbed by human activities
Grade B= median less than 7.5 mg/L and exceeded 100 mg/L in less than 10% of
samples - low to moderate disturbance
Grade C= median less than 10 mg/L and exceeded 100 mg/L in less than 10% of
samples - moderate to high disturbance.
Grade D= median greater than 10 mg/L or maximum exceeded 100 mg/L in more
than 10% of samples - high level of land disturbance
Conductivity -
Grade A= median less than 30 umhos/cm, never exceeded 100 umhos/cm
Grade B= median less than 50 umhos/cm, exceeded 100 umhos/cm in less than
10% of samples
Grade C= median greater than 50 umhos/cm, exceeded 100 umhos/cm in less than
10% of samples
Grade D= exceeded 100 umhos/cm in more than 10% of samples.
Total Copper -
Grade A= -never exceeded water quality standard of 7 ppb
J Grade B= exceeded 7 ppb in less than 10% of samples
Grade C= exceeded 7 ppb in 10 to 20% of samples
-� Grade D= exceeded 7 ppb in more than 20% of samples
A3
r

Appendix C (continued)
S Total Lead -
Grade A= never exceeded'water quality standard of 10 ppb
Grade B= exceeded 10 ppb in less than 10% of samples
' Grade C= exceeded 10 ppb in 10 to 20% of samples
Grade D= exceeded 10 ppb in more than 20% of samples
Total Zinc -
Grade A= median less than 5 ppb, never exceeded water quality standard of 50 ppb
i Grade B= median less than 10 ppb, exceeded 50 ppb in less than 10% of samples
Grade C= median less than 10 ppb, exceeded 50 ppb in 10 - 20% of samples.
Grade D= Median greater than 10 ppb or concentration exceeded 50 ppb in more
than 20% of samples
1 Total Phosphorous -
+ Grade A= median not above 0.10 mg/L
Grade B= median, greater than 0.10 mg/L but less than 0.20 mg/L.
Grade C= median greater than 0.20 mg/L but less than 0.30 mg/L
Grade D= median greater then 0.30 mg/L
Orthophosphate -
Grade A= median less than ambient level of 0.05 mg/L
Grade B= median between 0.05 mg/L but less than 0.10 mg/L
Grade C= median greater than 0.10 mg/L but less than 0.20 mg/L
Grade D= median greater then 0.20 mg/L.
Ammonia Nitrogen -
Grade A= never exceeded 0.50 mg/L
Grade B= never exceeded the proposed ambient standard for trout waters in the
summer of 1 mg/L
Grade C= exceeded 1 mg/L in less than 10% of samples, but never exceeded 2mg/L
Grade D= exceeded 1 mg/L in more than 10% of samples, or at least one sample
had a concentration greater than the proposed ambient standard for trout
waters in the winter of 2.0 mg/L.
Nitrate Nitrogen -
Grade A= median does not exceed 0.3 mg/L, no sample exceeded 1.0 mg/L
Grade B= less than 10% of samples exceeded 1.0 mg/L, none exceeded 5 mg/L
Grade C= no samples exceeded 5 mg/L
Grade D= at least one sample exceeded 5 mg/L

Appendix D: Stream Ranking Index - March, 2001
-_ Excellent
Median and maximum pollutant levels in all parameters show little effect from human
disturbances
Good
One or more parameters show minor or only occassional increases
in pollutant levels from
human disturbances
Average
Exhibits constant low levels of one or more pollutants or sudden significant, but short term
j
increases.
Below Ave Median pollutant levels are abnormally high in one or more parameters,
or exhibits very high
pollutant levels during certain weather conditions
Poor
Pollutant levels are consistently higher than average in several parameters and/or show
extreme levels during certain weather conditions
B = Buncombe County
H = Henderson County
HY = Haywood County
LL = Lake Lure
M = Madison County
P = Polk County
T = Transylvania County
site #
site description
Excellent
— HY3
East Fork Pigeon River/Cruso
100
H7
North Fork Mills River
98
r H10
Mills River at Hooper Lane
98
H12
Green River at Terry's Creek Rd
98
HY1
West Fork Pigeon River/Bethel
98
i T6
Little River at Dupont Road
98
T16
Little River at Sherwood Forest
98
LL9
Buffalo Creek (Broad River watershed)
97
T1
French Broad River at Mt Lyon Rd (Rosman)
97
H11
Green River below Lake Summit
96
_ H19
Green River at Old Hwy 25 S
96
P13
Green River at Hwy 9
96
T2
East Fork French Broad River at Rosman
96
T18
North Fork French Broad River headwaters
96
T20
Catheys Creek upstream of water supply
96
_. T3
Middle Fork French Broad River at Rosman
95
T11
King Creek headwaters
95
B22
Ivy Creek at Dillingham Road
94
H6
Crab Creek at Staton Rd (Little River watershed)
94
13913
Swannanoa River at Beetree Creek
93
B19
Broad River at SR 9
93
H28
Shaw Creek at Hunters Glen
93
— T9
Davidson River at entrance to Pisgah National Forest
93
HY2
East Fork Pigeon River/Bethel
92
656
Reems Creek at Ox Creek
91
69A
Beetree Creek (Swannanoa River watershed)
91
B28
Bent Creek below Lake Powhatan
91
B44
Gouges Branch (Newfound Creek watershed)
91
T19
West Fork French Broad River upstream
91
,620
Ivy Creek at Buckner Branch Road
90
j B24
Swannanoa River at confluence with North Fork
90
H9
Mills River at SR 191 (Davenport Bridge)
90
T5
West Fork French Broad River at 641215
90
A5

Appendix D: Stream Ranking Index - continued
T8
Williamson Creek
90
T10
King Creek at Brevard College
90
T12
Davidson River at confluence with FBR
90
Good
H26
Brittain Creek at Patton Park (Mud Creek watershed)
89
i LL2
Hickory Creek at Bat Cave (Broad River watershed)
89
131113
South Hominy Creek
88
B12A
Bent Creek at SR 191
88
LL6
Pool Creek (Broad River watershed)
88
HY10
Richland Creek at West Waynesville
88
— 65A
Ox Creek at Reems Creek (Reems Creek watershed)
86
H2O
Clear Creek at Apple Valley Rd (Mud Crk watershed)
86
} B43
Ross Creek at Swannanoa River (Swannonoa R wtrshd)
85
B45
Swannanoa River at Biltmore
85
H13
Big Hungry River below dam (Green River watershed)
85
61A
Big Ivy Creek at Forks of Ivy
84
B15A
Cane'Creek at Hwy 74 (FBR watershed)
84
—' B29
Avery's Creek at French Broad River
83
B33
North Fork Swannanoa River at Grovestone Quarry
83
B38
Swannanoa River at Bull Creek
83
H8
South Fork Mills River
83
HY13
Allens Creek (Richland Creek watershed)
83
LL4
Broad River at Chimney Rock
83
LL5
Broad River at Lake Lure
83
LL8
Cane Creek upstream from Tryon Bay (Broad Rvr wtrshd)
83
P16
North Pacolet River at Rte 108
83
B16A
Cane Creek at Mills Gap Road
82
H22
Hoopers Creek at Jackson Rd (Cane Creek watershed)
82
M7
Spring Creek
82
i P6
Horse Creek at SR 1516 (River Rd) (N Pacolet River wtrshd)
82
B10
Bull Creek at Swannanoa River (Swannanoa R wtrshd)
81
B16B
Robinson Creek at Cane Crk Rd (Cane Ck watershed)
81
11-7
Public Golf Course Creek at Hwy 64/74 (Broad Rvr wtrshd)
81
LL10
Fairfield Mts Creek (Broad River watershed)
81
—' HY9
Plott Creek in Hazelwood (Richland Crk watershed)
81
P9
Joels Creek upstream (N. Pacolet Rvr watershed)
81
P16
North Pacolet River at Melrose
80
Average
H3
Mud Creek at Erkwood Road
79
P2
White Oak Creek at SR 1531 (Fox Mt Rd)
79
P14
White Oak Creek at Briar Hill Farm
79
P17
White Oak Creek at Weidman's
79
_ B26
North Turkey Creek (Sandymush Creek watershed)
78
B31
Swannanoa River at Grassy Branch confluence
78
B41
Ross Creek at Tunnel Road (Swannanoa River watershed)
78
I H5
Clear Creek at Nix Road (Mud Creek watershed)
78
J H29
Brandy Branch at Mills River Village (Mills River watershed)
78
HY8
Eaglenest Creek in Hazelwood (Richland Creek watershed)
78
13613
Reems Creek at French Broad River
77
B15B
Ashworth Creek at Hwy 74 & Cane Crk Rd (Cane Ck wtrshd)
77
H18
Mud Creek at 7th Avenue
76
H21
Mud Creek at Berea Church Road
76
WV

-- Appendix D: Stream Ranking Index - continued
LL3
Broad River at Bat Cave
76
B8
Beaverdam Creek at Beaver Lake
75
B18
Reems Creek at Reems Creek Road
75
H15
Bat Fork Creek at Tabor Road (Mud Creek watershed)
75
T4
North Fork French Broad River at 64/215
75
B2
Lower Sandymush Creek
74
B14
Lower Flat Creek
74
B30
Grassy Branch (Swannanoa River watershed)
74
H2
French Broad River at Butler Bridge Road
74
P1
White Oak Creek at SR 1137/Houston Road
74
B21
Paint Fork at Barnardsville (Ivy River watershed)
73
— P8
Demannu Creek at SR 1140 and Hwy 9 (Green River wtrshd)
73
B12B
French Broad River at Bent Creek
72
B27
Flat Creek at NC 19/23
72
_ H17
Lower Cane Creek at NC 25
72
H23
Big Willow Creek at Patterson Rd
72
M12
Grapevine Creek (Ivy River watershed)
72
M15
Paint Fork at Beech Glen (Ivy River watershed)
72
T7
French Broad River at Everett Road
72
T13
Lamb Creek headwaters
72
T,14
Lamb Creek at confluence with FBR
72
J B17A
Swannanoa River at NC 81
.71
H14
Boylston Creek at Ladson Road
71
HY12
Jonathan Creek near confluence with Pigeon River
71
I B4
Lower Newfound Creek
70
B23
French Broad River at Jean Webb Park - Asheville
7b
— B40
Ross Creek at Lower Chunns Cove Rd(Swannanoa R wtrshd)
70
H24
Little Willow Creek at River Road
70
H30
Devils Fork at Dana Road (Mud Creek watershed)
70
M14
Middle Fork at Beech Glen (Ivy River watershed)
70
_
Below Average
67A
Reed Creek at UNCA Botanical Gardens
'69
LL1
Reedypatch Creek at Bat Cave (Broad River watershed)
69
' HY11
Richland Creek at Lake Junaluska
69
- M8
Little Laurel Creek (Laurel River watershed)
69
M9
Shelton Laurel Creek (Laurel River watershed)
69
M16
Gabriel Creek (Ivy River watershed)
69
_ P4
White Oak Creek at SR 1322 (Moore Road)
69
B25
South Turkey Creek (Sandymush Creek watershed)
68
B42
Ross Creek at Upper Chunns Cove (Swannanoa R wtrshd)
68
611A
upper Hominy Creek
67
T15
French Broad River at Wilson Road
67
_ T17
North Fork French Broad River at Macedonia Bridge
67
H1
French Broad River at Banner Farm Road in Horseshoe
66
._; M4
East Fork Bull Creek (Ivy River watershed)
66
P5
Horse Creek at SR 1516 (River Road) N Pacolet R wtrshd)
66
B32
French Broad River at Walnut Island Park
65
P10
Joels Creek downstream (N Pacolet River watershed)
65
P18
Camp Creek (Green River watershed)
65
B46
Sweeten Creek at Swannanoa River
64
H27
Mill Pond Creek at South Rugby Road
64
_ M6
Big Pine Creek
64
P7
North Pacolet River at SR 1516 (S River Rd)
64
63A
Upper Sandymush Creek
63
A7

Appendix D: Stream Ranking Index - continued
H16
Cane Creek at Howard Gap Road
63
HY19
Fines Creek upstream
63
B35
Smith Mill Creek at Louisiana Blvd.
62
1336
Sandymush Creek at Willow Creek
61
B17B
Haw Creek at NC 81 (Swannanoa River watershed)
61
B37
Newfound Creek at Leicester Hwy
61
! B6A
French Broad River at the Ledges Park
60
6713
Glenn Creek at UNCA Botanical Gardens (Reed Ck wtrshd)
60
B39
South Creek at Beaver Lake (Beaverdam Crk watershed)
60
HY4
Pigeon River downstream from Canton
60
HY14
Rush Fork upstream
60
M1
Ivy River at NC 25/70
60
M11
i
Bull Creek (Ivy River watershed)
60
J
Poor
B13
French Broad River at Corcoran Park (Hend/Bunc line)
59
M10
Laurel River
59
B36
Newfound Creek at Dark Cove Road
58
HY6
Rush Fork at Crabtree
58
HY15
Fines Creek midstream
58
BIB
Little Ivy Creek (Ivy River watershed)
57
HY22
Hyatt Creek downstream (Richland Creek watershed)
57
M3
French Broad River at Hot Springs
57
H4
Mud Creek at North Rugby Road
56
HY20
Cove Creek at NC 209 (Fines Creek watershed)
56
H25
Gash Creek at Etowah School Road
54
M5
Laurel Creek (Laurel River watershed)
51
M13
California Creek at Beech Glen (Ivy River watershed)
51
M2
French Broad River at Barnard Bridge
50
HY7
Fines Creek downstream
49
HY21
Hyatt Creek upstream (Richland Creek watershed)
47
_ HY5
Pigeon River at Hepco Bridge
46
B34
Lower Hominy Creek at NC 191
40
PPr! Ant
Excellent
Good
Average
Below Ave
Poor
Buncombe
16
23
30
24
7
Henderson
27
17
40
10
6
Haywood
16
16
10
21
37
Lake Lure
10
70
10
10
0
Madison
0
6
19
44
31
Polk
7
27
33
33
0
Transylvania
70
0
20
10
0
A8

Appendix E: Data Summary
Site the number assigned to the VWIN site
Sample # the number of samples collected for each parameter
Low minimum value of any sample(s)
Median median value for each site for last 3 years and then for all years monitored
High maximum value of any sample(s)
pH - Last 3 Years
All Results
alk
sample #
lmt
median
high
sample #
IDgIm
1
36
6.6
7.1
7.4
95
7.0
2
36
6.8
7.0
7.5
96
7.0
4
35
6.8
7.1
7.8
92
7.1
5
36
6.6
7.1
7.5
96
7.1
6
36
6.9
7.1
7.4
93
7.1
7
36
6.9
7.1
7.6
96
7.1
8
36
6.7
7.2
7.5
95
7.1
9
36
6.9
7.3
7.5
71
7.2
10
35
6.9
7.1
7.3
94
7.1
13
36
6.6
6.9
7.2
45
6.9
14
34
6.8
7.2-
7.5
34
7.2
15
35
5.3
7.2
7.5
35
7.2
16
35
6.9
7.1
7.4
35
7.1
17
29
6.9
7.0
7.3
29
7.0
18
26
6.7
7.0
7.3 1
26
7.0
Turbidi
(NTT ) -
Last 3 Years/det.
limit
1 NT U
All Results
sits
sample #
tsar
median
high
sample #
median
1
36
<1
9.6
110
96
6.3
2
36
1.4
4.6
140
96
5.0
4
35
2.4
11.0
130
92
11.1
5
36
<1
15.5
120
96.
11.0
6
36
1.6
4.4
65
93
5.3
7
36
1.1
5.5
140
96
6.5
8
36
3.4
8.9
450
95
11.0
9
36
<1
4.0
29
71
5.0
10
36
1.3
6.4
80
95
7.0
13
36
1.5
3.6
11
45
3.7
14
35
1.3
4.2
170
35
4.2
15
35
<1
5.9
90
35
5.9
16
35
<1
3.9
130
35
3.9
17
30
1.9
6.3
160
30
6.3
18
26
1.4
9.2.
230
26
9.2
Alkalinity
- Last
3 Years/det
limit 1
moll, -
All Results
ak
sample
I=
median
high
;maple # median
1
36
12
24
34
96 22
2
36
14
28
42
96 28
4
35
8
22
28
92 21
5
36
9
18
30
95 18
6
36
15
25
56
93 22
7
36
9
24
32
96 23
8
36
12.
25
33
95 23
9
36
12
24
45
71 22
10
36
12
20
26
95 - 20
13
36
11
16
- 34
45 16
14
35'
16
22
36
35 22
15
35.
8
16
48
35 16
16
35
12
20
27
35 20
17
30
16
22
31
30 22
18
26
6
16
33 1
26 16
TSS
sits
(mg/L) - Last
3 Years/det
limit a
mgn
high
All Results
sample #
median
sample #
I=
median
1
36
<4
7.6
48.8
93
6.4
2
36
<4
1.6
46.0
91
1.6
4
35
<4
5.6
95.6
89
6.4
5
36
<4
18.8
131.6'
94
19.6
6
36
<4
1.2
44.8
88
2.4
7
36
<4
5.2
• 151.6
93
8.4
8
36
.<4
5.0
178.0
93
10.8
9
36
<4
4.6
34.4
70
7.6
10
36
<4
6.4
40.8
93
10.4
13
36
<4
1.2
3.6
45
1.2
14
35
<4
1.6
64.0
35
1.6
15
35
<4
5.6
108.8
35
5.6
16
35
<4
3.2
115.2
35
3.2
17
30
<4
2.0
78.0
30
2.0
18
26
<4
10.0
108.8 1
26
10.0
A9

Appendix E: Data Summary
Conductivity
- Last
3 Yearc/det
limit 10 umhostcm
All Results
alto
sample #
I=
median
high
sample #
median
1
36
25
51
60
95
48
2
36
49
60
122
95
58
4
35
46
57
62
91
51
5
36
33
40
49
95
40
6
36
37
55
69
92
51
7
36
56
106
254
95
100
8
36
39
51
102
94
45
9
36
47
70
103
71
62
10
36
52
75
104
94
65
13
36
27
32
103
45
32
14
35
39
59
86
35
59
15
35
31
38
45
35
38
16
35
39
49
70
35
49
17
30
26
59
69
30
59
18
26
30
34
91 1
26
34
Lead
811e
(R2b) - Lost
3 Y arc/dat
limit 2 Dph
hL4h
All Results
sample#
median
ample #
I=
medman
1
36
<2
0.5
4.9
95
0.3
2
36
<2
0.5
2.3
96
0.1
4
35
<2
0.4
3.8
92
0.4
5
36
<2
0.8
20.2
96
0.5
6
35
<2
0.2
2.4
92
0.2
7
36
<2
0.5
14.1
96
0.4
8
36
<2
0.4
8.7
95
0.4
9
35.
<2
0.7
4.1
70
0.7
10
36
<2
0.5
7.3
95
0.5
13
36
<2
0.1
<2
45
0.2
14
35
<2
0.2
4.4
35
0.2
15
35
<2
0.4
4.6
35
0.4
16
34
<2
0.3
5.3
34
0.3
17
30
<2
0.2
4.1
30
0.2
18
26
<2
0.5
9.5 1
26
0.5
Copper
(apb) -
Last 3 Years/det
limit 2
nppb
All Results
ak
sample #
IM
median
high
sample
median
1
36
<2
1.3
4.6
95
0.9
2
36
<2
1.0
6.3
96
0.4
4
35
<2
1.1
24.0
92
0.9
5
36
<2
1.5
12.8
96
1.2
6
36
<2
0.5
5.9
93
0.4
7
36
<2
2.3
13.7
96
2.3
8
36
<2
0.5
7.7
95
0.4
9
36
<2
0.7
8.4
71
0.7
10
36
<2
1.2
17.2
95
1.0
13
36
<2
0.4
13.1
45
0.4
14
35
<2
0.9
5.6
35
0.9
15
35
<2
0.5
5.7
35
0.5
16
35
<2
0.4
5.6
35
0.4
17
30
<2
0.9
6.4
30
0.9
18
26
<2
0.4
15.5
26
0.4
Zinc - Last
3 Yearc/dat
limit 20 npnh
All Results
site
sample #
IM
median
high
sample #
median
1
36
<20
1.8
51.3
94
2.5
2
36
<20
1.3
20.4
95
1.7
4
35
<20
1.1
<20
91
4.0
5
36
<20
2.9
<20
95
3.5
6
36
<20
0.4
<20
92
2.1
7
36
<20
1.8
37.1
95
4.5
8
36
<20
0.1
<20
94
1.4
9
36
<20
5.0
<20
70
4.7
10
36
<2d
5.3
43.7
94
6.2
13
36
<20
0.0
<20
44
0.0
14
35
<20
1.5
37.8
35
1.5
15
35
<20
0.3
<20
35
0.3
16
35
<20
0.4
26.0
35
0.4
17
30
<20
0.8
<20
30
0.8
18
26
<20
2.0
25.8 1
26
2.0
A10

Appendix E: Data Summary
Orthophosphate
(mall
as PO4)-Lasf3
Yrs/der Iim
0.02 mg/L
All Results
BM sample
#
LQA
median
bL9h
sample #
median
1
36
<0.02
0.10
0.38
96
0.06
2
36
0.03
0.11
0.48
96
0.06
4
35
0.05
0.11
0.53
92
0.08
5
36
<0.02
0.08
0.34
96
0.04
6
36
<0.02
0.10
0.43
93
0.04
7
36
0.05
0.36
0.92
96
0.36
8
36
0.02
0.14
0.57
95
0.06
9
36
0.04
0.13
0.40
71
0.08
10
36
0.26
0.66
1.00
95
0.37
13
36
<0.02
0.05
0.26
45
0.04
14
35
0.04
0.19
0.62
35
0.19
15
35
0.04
0.10
0.33
35
0.10
16
35
<0.02
0.09
0.40
35
0.09
17
30
0.02
0.15
0.64
30
0.15
18
26
0.02
0.14
0.40 1
26
0.14
Ammonia
-nitrogen (mg/L)
- Last 3 Years/det
Itm 0.02
malL
All Results
site
sample ##
LOW
median
high
sample #
median
1
36
<0.02
0.09
0.37
95
0.03
2
36
0.03
0.07
0.26
95
0.03
4
35
0.05
0.11
0.34
91
0.07
5
36
0.02
0.09
0.27
95
0.02
6
36
0.03
0.07
.0.23
92
0.03
7
36
0.03
0.08
0.66
95
0.03
8
36
0.03
0.08
0.41
94
0.04
9
36
<0.02
0.03
0.23
71
0.02
10
36
<0.02
0.09
0.41
94
0.13
13
36
<0.02
0.09
0.20
45
0.09
14
35
0.03
0.07
0.31
35
0.07
15
35
<0.02
0.05
0.32
35
0.05
16
35
<0.02
0.04
0.35
35
0.04
17
30 .
0.04
0.07
0.38
30
0.07
18
26
0.02
0.06
0.31
26
0.06
Nitrate/nitrite-nitrooen
(mg/
)- Last 3 Years/det
limit
0.1 ma/L
All Results
Bk
sample #
chat
median
high
sample #
median
1
36
<1
0.3
0.9
96
0.2
2
36
0.1
0.2
1.3
96
0.2
4
35
0.2
0.6
1.2
92
0.5
5
36
0.1
0.3
0.5
96
0.3
6
36
0.1
0.3
0.5
93
0.3
7
36
0.2
0.3
0.9
96
0.3
8
36
0.1
0.2
1.7
95
0.2
9
36
0.6
0.9
1.3
71
0.8
10
36
0.8
1.4
2.4
95
1.0
13
36
<1
0.2
0.3
45
0.2
14
35
0.2
0.4
1.1
35
0.4
15
35
0.1
0.3
0.6
35
0.3
16
35
0.2
0.3
0.6
35
0.3
17
30
0.1
0.5
1.2
30
0.5
18
26
<1
0.2
0.8
26
0.2
All

Appendix F: TRENDS FOR EACH SITE RELATED TO FLOW AND TIME*
site
increases as flow increases
decreases as flow increases
1
pH, alk, NH3
2
turb, tss, cu, NO3
pH, alk, cond
4
turb, tss, cu, pb, zn, PO4i NH3, NO3
pH
5
pH, alk, cond, NH3
6
NO3
pH, alk, cond
7
turb, tss, cu, pb, zn, NH3, NO3
pH
8
tss
9
NO3
10
cond, PO4
site
increasing over time
decreasing over time
1
pH, alk, turb, cond, pb, PO4i NH3, NO3
2
cond, cu, PO4, NH3
4
cond, cu, PO4i NH3, NO3
zn
5
turb, cu, PO4, NH3
6
pH, cond, PO4, NH3
zn
7
pH, NH3
tss, zn
8
alk, cond, PO4, NH3
tss, zn
9
10
tss, cond, cu, PO4
*alk=alkalinity, turb=turbidity, tss=total suspended solids, cond=conductivity, pb=lead, z=zinc,
cu=copper, PO4=orthophosphate, NH3=ammonia-nitrogen, NO3=nitrate/nitrite-nitrogen
Al2

.J
J
Appendix G: . Number of Sites Exhibiting Seasonal Trends
parameter
hi winter
hi spring
hi summer
hi fall
to winter
to spring
to summer
to fall
pH
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
alkalinity
0
0
2
1
2
1
0
0
turbidity
0
0
3
0
1
0
1 0
2
total susp sol
0
0
2
0
1
0
0
1
conductivity
0
0
3
1
2
2
0
0
copper
0
0
2
1
2
1
0
0
lead
0
0
2
0
1
1
0
1
zinc
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
orthophos.
0
0
1
1
0
2
0
0
ammonia-N
1
1
1
0
0
0
1
1
nitrate-N
2
1
1 -J--0
0
0
0
4
A13
J

POLK COUNTY STREAM WATER QUALITY;
YEAR SEVEN
VOLUNTEER WATER INFORMATION NETWORK
Richard P. Maas
Steven C. Patch
Marilyn J. Westphal
Elizabeth A. Cook
Carmen Lisowski
Christine C Maurer
Technical Report #00-074
JUNE 2000
THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT ASHEVILLE

Acknowledgments
i We wish to thank the The Pacolet Area Conservancy and the Polk County Board of
Commissioners for their continued financial support of the monitoring program. Their foresight
in developing a county -wide stream water quality monitoring program will help provide
information to protect water quality as the population of the county grows.
Special credit should. be given to
graham Peterson, the coordinator of the Polk County program and to David Rice and Bill Meanix
who deliver the samples to the Environmental Quality Institute laboratory every month. Of
course, the volunteers who collect the samples every month are the most important part of the
program. Many thanks to the Polk County volunteers including McCrae Dalton, Cary
Davenport, Michelle Edwards, Lane Bailey, Bill Meanix, Jim Johnston, Grant Libramento, Al
and Sallie Page, Steven Bouley, Bud Potter, Graham Peterson, Bill Janes, Paul Weidman, David
Prudhomme, and Kathryn Jolly.
Without volunteers any monitoring program would be prohibitively expensive. These
concientious citizens are making an important contribution to the preservation of clean water
resources in Polk County and their efforts are greatly appreciated. Concern about water quality
continues to grow and the information gathered by these dedicated volunteers will play an
important role in developing a comprehensive watershed management plan for the Broad River
and will provide valuable data for local resource planning.
!' JUL ! 0C';O
t�
W/1 EN QUAI_ii'� cC! 1C11
ASHELi REGIC�!Ai OFF;C+ i'�

I. Introduction
VWIN's History
The Volunteer Water Information Network (VWIN) is a partnership of groups and
individuals dedicated to preserving water quality in western North Carolina. Organizations
such as the Pacolet Area Conservancy (PAC), RiverLink Inc., and the Environmental
Conservation Organization of Henderson County (ECO), provide administrative .support. The
UNC-Asheville Environmental Quality Institute (EQI) provides technical assistance through
laboratory analysis of water samples, statistical analysis of water quality results, and written
interpretation of the data. Volunteers venture out once per month to collect water. samples
- from designated sites along streams and rivers in the region.
An accurate and on -going water quality database, as provided by VWIN, is essential
for good environmental planning. The data gathered by the volunteers provides an
increasingly accurate picture of water quality conditions and changes in these conditions over
time. Communities can use this data to identify streams of high water quality which need to be
preserved, as well as streams which cannot support further development without significant
water quality degradation. In addition, the information allows planners to assess the impacts
of increased development and the success of pollution control measures. Thus, this program
provides the water quality data for evaluation of current management efforts and can help
guide decisions affecting future management actions. The VWIN program also encourages
involvement of citizens in the awareness, ownership and protection of their water resources.
In February of 1990, volunteers began monthly sampling 27 stream sites in Buncombe
County.. The program expanded to 45 sites by November of 1990. Since that time, six other
area counties have begun monitoring of local streams, rivers, and lakes to bring the total
monitoring sites to 175. Monthly sampling of these sites provides extensive water quality
information for the French Broad River and Broad River Watersheds in North Carolina.
Sample sites were chosen to adequately cover as many watershed drainage areas as possible
within each county. Some sites were chosen to cover potential future water supplies. Several
sites were also selected as control sites to provide comparison between undeveloped and
developed watersheds.
The Polk County VWIN Program
In April of 1993, the Pacolet Area Conservancy began a VWIN program that
monitored 10 selected streams in order to begin providing an assessment of water quality
conditions in Polk County. PAC named the program "streamwatch" and it became an instant
success. The program has expanded and now includes 15 sites. The approximate location of
all the monitoring sites in the county can be found on the map in Figure 1. Table 1 is list of
the monitoring sites and their locations.
Under the administration of the Pacolet Area Conservancy, this program has gathered
seven years of water quality data. This.report represents statistical analyses and interpretation
of data gathered by VWIN volunteers from April 1993 through March 2000.
2

Approximate Locations of Current
Polk County VWIN Monitoring Sites
1. White Oak Creek at S.R. 1137 (Houston Rd.)
2. White Oak Creek at S.R. 1531 (Fox Mtn. Rd.)
4. White Oak Creek at S.R. 1322 (Moore Rd.)
5. Horse Creek at S.R. 1153 (Skyuka Rd.) (North Pacolet River
watershed)
i 6. Horse Creek at S.R. 1516 (River Rd.) (North Pacolet River
watershed)
7. North Pacolet River at S.R. 1516 (S. River Rd.)
8. Demannu Creek at S.R. 1140 & R. 9N (Green River watershed)
9. Joel's Creek upstream/Saluda Treatment Plant (North Pacolet
River watershed)
10. ' Joel's Creek downstream/Saluda Treatment Plant (North
Pacolet River watershed)
13. Green River at Hwy 9 .
14. White Oak Creek at Briar Hill Farm
15. North Pacolet River at Melrose
16. North Pacolet River at Rte 108
17. White Oak Creek at Weidman's
18. Camp Creek (Green River watershed)
01

Figure 1: Polk County
VZATINT Q;+,ao
w E 3 0 3 6 Miles
s

H. Methodology
Volunteers are provided with instructions about sample collection procedures prior to
their first sample collection day. Instruction through hands-on experience is provided by a
- VWIN coordinator, and a training manual is given to each volunteer, to read.
Polk County stream samples are collected on the fourth Saturday of each month.
- Collecting coincident samples from all the sites in the monitoring area greatly reduces
meteorological variability between sites. Therefore, the volunteers are asked to collect samples
from the assigned site as close to noon as possible. Water samples are collected in six 250 mL
polyethylene bottles. In order to assure consistent sampling techniques, each bottle is labeled
with the site number and the parameter for which the water from that particular bottle will be
analyzed. Stream water level is used as a surrogate measure of stream flow and is recorded using
bridge markings or bridge -to -water measurements. Other information recorded by the volunteer
can be found in Appendix A which is a copy of the data sheet used by the volunteer.
After collection, the volunteer takes the samples and data sheet to a designated drop point
where the samples are refrigerated. It is the job of the volunteer coordinator to pick up the
samples from the drop point and deliver them to the EQI laboratory for analysis Monday
Morning. A description of the laboratory analysis methodology is contained in Appendix B. After
analysis, the empty bottles are cleaned in the laboratory and then packed together with a blank
data sheet for use next month.
Various statistical analyses are performed on the data and are intended to:
1) Characterize the water quality of each stream site relative to accepted or established water
quality standards;
2) Compare water quality of each stream site relative to all other sites in the VWIN program;
3) Identify effects of precipitation, stream water level, and seasonality and temporal trends.on
water quality, after sufficient data has been collected.
5

III. Results and Discussion
This discussion is based on seven years of data gathered between April, 1993 and March,
2000. However, some sites were added in the past few years and less data is available for
analysis. The more recent sites will be analyzed in this report, but the lack of extensive data
makes comparison less reliable. With each additional year of continuous stream monitoring,
trends in water quality become more evident, and a clearer picture of actual conditions existing in
various streams and watersheds is available. Continuing water quality data collection over time
provides updated information on changing conditions. With this information financial resources
and policies can be focussed on areas of greatest concern.
A discussion of the stream sites relative to specific water quality parameters follows. In
order to better understand the parameters, explanations, standards and sources of contamination,
some definitions of units and terms have been provided.
The amount of a substance in water is referred to in units of concentration. Parts per.
million (ppm) is equivalent to mg/L. This means that if a substance is reported to have a
concentration of 1 ppm, then there is one milligram of the substance in each liter (1000 grams) of
water. The parameter total suspended solids (TSS) illustratesthe weight/volume concept of
concentration. According to the statistical summary data for Polk County (Appendix E), site 1
had a median TSS concentration of 6.0 mg/L which is equivalent to 6.0 ppm. Thus if you filter
one liter of water from site 1 on average you will collect sediments that weigh 6.0 mg. The same
conversion applies for parts per billion (ppb) which is equivalent to micrograms per liter (ug/L).
Concentrations of the VWIN parameters in water samples are compared to normal ambient
levels. Ambient levels are estimates of the naturally occurring concentration ranges of a
substance. For instance, the ambient level of copper in most streams is less than 1 ug/L (1 ppb).
Ambient water quality standards, on the other hand, are used to judge acceptable concentrations.
The ambient water quality standard for Ammonia Nitrogen to protect trout populations is 1.0
mg/L, but the normal ambient level for most trout waters is about 0.1 mg/L.
A classification grade was assigned to each site based on the results of analysis. This
report shows site specific grades for each parameter for the three year period from April, 1997 .
through March, 2000 (Table 2). Using only the past three years of data allows streams to show
the most current water quality status. Thus, streams that may improve water quality as a result of
newly implemented management practices will reflect improvement in the grade. Likewise
streams where water quality has been deteriorating will show lower grades than past years. The
grades are designed to characterize. the water quality at each site with regard to individual
parameters. Water quality standards were used where applicable to assess the possible impacts
these levels could have on human health and organisms in the aquatic environment. For example,
the 1.0 mg/L water quality standard for nitrate -nitrogen was used to determine grades for the sites.
A grade of "D" would be assigned to a site if, over the last three years, one sample had a
concentration that exceeded this standard. In contrast, due to the detrimental effects decreases in
pH can have on the organisms that live in streams, a site could receive an "A" if minimum pH
value was never lower than 6.0. Appendix C describes the criteria used for the grading system for
9

Table 2: Classification Grades Based on Parameters and Ranges (4/97-3/00)
Site
1
2
4
5
6
7
8
9
1.0
13
14
15
16
17
18
PH
A
A
B
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Alkalinity
C
C
C
C
C
C
C.
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
Turbidity
C
B
C
C
C
C
C
B
B
B
B
B
C
B
C
Total Suspended Solids
B
B
B
B
C
B
C
B
B
A
A
B
B
A
B
Conductivity
B
B
B
B
B
D
C
B.
B.
B
B
B
B
B
B
Copper
A
A
C
B
B
B
A
A
A
B.
A
A
A
A
'A
Lead
A
A
A'
B
A
A
A
A,.
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Zinc
B.
A
A
A
X
A
A
A
A
A
A'
A
A
A
A
Orthophosphate
B
B
B
A.
B
D
B
B
D
A
C
B
B
C
C
Ammonia Nitrogen,
A
A
B
A
B
A„
A
A
A
A
A
A
A.
A
A
Nitrate Nitrogen
B
B
C
B
C
B
C
C
C
B
B
B
B
B
B
Grades
A= very good .
B= good
C= fair
D= poor

each parameter.
Appendix D is a list of all WIN stream sites monitored in Western North Carolina
- ranked by overall scores using the grading system previously discussed shown in Table 2.
Numerical scores are determined by assigning points for each grade. A grade of A is 4 points, B
is 3 points, C is 2 points, and D is 1 point. Since sedimentation is the most serious water quality
problem in Western North Carolina, the suspended solids parameter was given double weight.
The pH and alkalinity parameters were not used in the calculation as these factors are generally
not under local control.. Total phosphorus was also removed from the calculation as most sites
are no longer analyzed for this parameter. A perfect score would be 40 points. Sites with a score
of 35 or greater and no grades of C or D were rated excellent. Sites with scores from 30 to 34
and no grades of D, as well as sites that scored greater than 34, but with at least one grade of C or
D, were rated good. Sites with scores between 25 and 29, as well as sites with scores between 30
and 34 that had at least'one grade of D, were rated fair. Sites with scores below 25 were rated
poor. To make the grading scale more familiar to the general public, all scores were translated to
a 0 to 100 scale on. the ranking list.
Appendix E contains summarized statistical data collected over the course of this study. It
is a list of minimum, maximum, and median concentrations or values. Unlike Table 2 which is
based only on the last three years of the study, the data in Appendix E covers the entire seven
year period of the study.
.A statistical analysis of the effects of stream water level, temporal changes, and
seasonality on the water quality parameters at individual sites has also been included in this
discussion. This analysis is used to determine if changes in concentrations or levels of a
parameter relate to changes in water levels, increases or decreases over time, and changes of the
seasons in Western North Carolina. Trends are observed in the data and interpretations of what
might be causing the trends are suggested. Trends are considered significant if the p-value is less
than 0.05. The p-value is the probability of obtaining as much trend as observed in the data if, in
fact, there was no true underlying trend. Appendix F is a summary of trends related to flow,
time, and season. Trend analysis is carried out on sites 1 through 10 only as the other sites have
not been analyzed long enough to show significant trends.
A. Acidity (pH) and Alkalinity: pH is used to measure acidity. The pH is a measure of the
concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. If the value of the measurement is less than 7.0, the
solution is acidic. If the value is greater than 7.0, the solution is alkaline (more commonly
referred Was basic). The ambient water quality standard is between 6.0 and 9.0. Natural pH in
area streams are generally in the range of 6.5 - 7.2. Values below 6.5 may indicate the effects of
acid rain or other acidic inputs, and values above 7.5 may be indicative of an industrial discharge.
Because organisms in aquatic environments have adapted to the pH conditions of natural
waters, even small pH fluctuations can interfere with the reproduction of those organisms or can
even kill them outright. The pH is an important water quality parameter because it has the
potential to seriously affect aquatic ecosystems. It can also be a useful indicator of specific types
of discharges.

Alkalinity is the measure of the acid neutralizing capacity of a water or soil. Waters with
high alkalinity are considered to be protected (well buffered) against acidic inputs. Streams that
are supplied with a buffer are able to absorb and neutralize hydrogen ions introduced by acidic
sources such as acid rain, decomposing organic matter and industrial effluent. For example,
water can leach calcium carbonate (a natural buffer) from limestone soils or bedrock and then
move into a stream, providing that stream with a buffer. As a result, pH levels in the stream are
held constant despite acidic inputs. Unfortunately, natural buffering materials can become
depleted due to excessive acidification. In that case, further acidic inputs can cause severe
decreases in stream pH. Potential future stream acidification problems can be anticipated by
alkalinity measurement. There is no legal standard for alkalinity, but waters with an alkalinity
below 30 mg/1 are considered to have low alkalinity. Western NC streams tend to have low
alkalinity because the granite bedrock does not contain many acid -neutralizing compounds such
as calcium carbonate.
Figures 2 and 3 show median pH and alkalinity levels compared with the average median
for the seven -county VWIN region. Site 4 on Whife Oak Creek at Moore Road is the only site
that has ever had a pH level below 6.0. Lowest median pH is at site 13 on the Green River.
Interestingly, most of the more recently established sites show slightly higher median pH levels.
These sites have been monitored a higher percentage of time during drought conditions than the
other sites. Median alkalinity levels at these sites, however, are about the same as at the other
sites. All sites show pH and alkalinity levels that are normal for this region.
Trend analysis. shows most sites with pH levels decreasing as water levels rise and several
sites show pH levels increasing over time. It is normal for pH to decrease as flow increases as
rainwater is slightly acidic. The increase in pH over time may be related to the dry conditions
and low water levels that have occurred over the past two years.
B. Turbidity and Total Suspended Solids (TSS): Turbidity is a measurement of the visual
clarity of a water sample and indicates the presence of fine suspended particulate matter. The unit
used to measure turbidity is NTU (nephelometric turbidity units) which measures the absorption
and reflection of light when it is passed through a sample of water. Because particles can have a
wide variety of sizes, shapes and densities, there is only an approximate relationship between the
turbidity of a sample and the concentration (i.e. weight) of the particulate matter present. This is
why there are separate tests for NTU turbidity and suspended solids.
Turbidity is an important parameter for assessing the viability of a stream for trout
propagation. Trout eggs can withstand only small amounts of silt before hatching success is
greatly reduced. For this reason, the standard for trout -designated waters is 10 NTU- while the
standard to protect other aquatic life is 50 NTU.
.TSS quantifies solids by weight and is heavily influenced by stream flow and land
disturbing activities. Mountain streams in undisturbed forested areas remain clear even after a
moderately heavy rainfall event, but streams in areas with disturbed soil -will become highly
turbid after even a relatively small rainfall. Deposition of silt into a stream bottom can bury and
destroy the complex bottom habitat. Consequently, the habitat for most species of aquatic insects,
snails, and crustaceans is destroyed by stream siltation. The absence of these species reduces the
diversity of the ecosystem. In addition, small amounts of bottom -deposited sediment can severely
reduce the hatch rate of trout eggs. There is no legal standard for TSS, but values below 30.0
W

tisites �—ave med
7.4
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pacolet River watershed
watershed
7.3
7.2
7.1
a
7
6.9
6.6
6.7 Y
E c °' O O O O O 3 u 3
UE r o, o a a a x x
J� m
O 9 � n
cb N a
Figure 2: Median pH levels for each site in Polk County compared with the average median
for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina
tisiles --P-ave med
30
Green River
While Oak Creek
North Pacolet Riverwalershed
watershed
25
20
r
tOi
U 15
E
10
5
0
U U U U U U U U U U U
E °' O O O O
U v
FS FS n
u%
Figure 3: Median alkalinity levels for each site in Polk County compated with the average
median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina
10

mg/1 are generally considered low, and values above 100 mg/l are considered high. A good
measure of the upstream land use conditions is how much TSS rises after a heavy rainfall.
Figures 4 and 5 show median turbidity levels and total suspended solids concentrations
for each site compared with the average median for the seven -county VWIN region. Three sites
show even median turbidity levels exceeding trout standards. They are site 4, the most
downstream site on White Oak Creek, site 5, the upstream site on Horse Creek, and site 8 on
Demannu Creek. In the past year site 5 on Horse Creek has exceeded the standard 67% on the
times monitored. Site 8 on Demannu Creek has exceeded the standard 42% of the time in the
past year. Both sites 4 and 1 on White Oak Creek have exceeded the standard on 50% of the
monitoring events in the past year. Over the past year sediment concentrations have been highest
at site 5 on Horse Creek and site 4 on White Oak Creek.
There is clearly some constant disturbance at site 5 on Horse Creek at Skyuka Road, This
site on the north side of Columbus should be investigated for sources.of erosion. Erosion along
certain sections of White Oak Creek also appears to be a problem. The sites least affected by
erosion and runoff is site 13 on the Green River. This site is just downstream from Lake Adger
and sediment in the Green River upstream would settle in the lake. Several sites including sites 2
and 4 on White Oak Creek, site 7 on the North Pacolet River, and site 8 on Demannu Creek,
show turbidity and/or total suspended solids increasing as water level rises.- This is an indication
of erosion and surface runoff. Site 6, the downstream site on Horse Creek, site 8 on Demannu
Creek, and site 10, the downstream site on Joels Creek, show sediment concentrations decreasing
over time. Only two sites, site 1 on White Oak Creek and site 5 on Horse Creek upstream, show
seasonal trends in sediment concentrations. Both sites show highest concentrations in the
summer when land disturbing activities often reach a peak.
C. Conductivity: Conductivity is measured in micromhos per centimeter (umho/cm) and is used
to measure the ability of a water sample to conduct an electrical current. Absolutely pure water
will not even conduct an electrical current. When a sample contains dissolved solids or salts,
these salts are separated into positively and negatively charged particles called ions. A water
sample that contains ions will conduct electricity, and the concentration of dissolved ions in a
sample determines the degree of conductivity. Thus, measuring the conductivity of a sample
represents the amount of dissolved salts in the water.
There is no legal standard for conductivity, but potable water has a range from 50-1500
umho/cm, while industrial wastewater may have levels above 10,000 umho/cm. Because land -
disturbing activities tend to elevate conductivity readings, conductivity is usually lowest in
stream headwaters.
Figure 6 shows median conductivity levels at each site compared to the average median
for the region. All but two sites show median conductivity levels at or below the average median
for the region. The downstream site on Joels Creek (site 10) shows median conductivity levels
slightly exceeding average and the downstream site on the North Pacolet River (site 7) shows
median levels greatly exceeding the average for the region. The town of Saluda and the Saluda
wastewater treatment plant are the likely sources for additional chemical salts to Joels Creek.
The town of Tryon appears to have a much greater affect on the North Pacolet River. The
sources are likely road runoff, industrial waste, and the Tryon wastewater treatment plant.
Site 2 on White Oak Creek at Fox Mountain Road, site 6 downstream on Horse Creek,
11

!_sites --o—ave mad
14
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pacolet River watershed
watershed.
Figure 4: Median turbidity levels for each VWIN site in Polk County compared with the
average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina
e mad
tisites �--ev
20
Green River White Oak Creek .North Pacolet River watershed
16 watershed
16
14
12
10
E
6
6
4
2
0
Y Y
p Y Y Y Y Y y r m m
' m c O O O - O O - $ O o
E m m m m m a z z a u
i 4 z
CSb n
•
Figure 5; Median total suspended solids concentrations -for each VWIN site in Polk County
_ compared with the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western
North Carolina
12 .
Figure 5; Median total suspended solids concentrations -for each VWIN site in Polk County
_ compared with the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western
North Carolina
12 .

and site 7 downstream on the North Pacolet River show conductivity levels decreasing as water
levels rise. This is a normal occurrence as rain water would dilute any salts in the stream. Site 5
on Horse Creek upstream and site 10 on Joels Creek downstream show conductivity levels
increasing as water levels rise indicating surface runoff of pollutants into the streams. Most sites
show conductivity levels increasing over time. The relatively dry conditions over the past two
years may be influencing these trends. Three sites show highest conductivity levels in the
summer and three show highest in the fall. This is normally the period when water levels are
lowest and less dilution occurs.
D. Copper, Lead, and Zinc
Copper: The standard of 7.0 ug/1 has been established to protect aquatic life. In most areas,
ambient levels are usually below 1.0 ug/1.
Lead: The drinking water action level is 15.0 ug/l. However,.the USEPA has set a goal of zero
ug/L in drinking water in recognition that virtually any amount of lead will cause some
neurological damage to infants or young children. A standard of 25.0 ug/1 has been established to
protect aquatic life, while the normal ambient level is usually below 1.0 ug/l.
Zinc: The surface water standard is 50.0 ug/l. Typical ambient levels of zinc are approximately
5.0 ug/l. Zinc is a byproduct of the auto tire vulcanization process.
These three metals have detrimental effects to aquatic ecosystems even at low concentrations.
Elevated levels can also be indicative of industrial pollution. All three metals are also commonly
found at elevated levels in industrial wastewater discharge and domestic septic drainage. In
addition, runoff from roads and other impervious surfaces are a probable source of
contamination.
Figures 7, 8, and 9 show median copper, lead, and zinc concentrations compared with the
average median for the region. Four sites have exceeded metals concentrations standards in the
past year. Site 1 on White Oak Creek at Houston Road exceeded the zinc standard in early
February, 2000, site 13 on the Green River exceeded the copper standard in June, 1999, and site
5 on Horse Creek upstream exceeded the copper standard in May, 1999. Median copper
concentrations at site 7 are a little more than double the average median for the region.
Site 4 on White Oak Creek at Moore Road and site 7 on the North Pacolet River both
show all heavy metals concentrations increasing as water levels rise indicating surface runoff to
be a significant source. Sites 2 and 4 on White Oak Creek, site 5 on Horse Creek upstream, and
site 10 on Joels Creek downstream show copper concentrations increasing over time. However,
five sites show zinc concentrations decreasing over time including site 2 on White Oak Creek,
sites 5 and 6 on Horse Creek, site 7 on the North Pacolet River, and site 8 on Demannu Creek.
E. Orthophosphate: Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for aquatic plants and algae. It occurs
naturally in water and is, in fact, usually the limiting nutrient in most aquatic systems. In other
words, plant growth is restricted by the availability of phosphorus in the system. Excessive
phosphorus inputs stimulate the growth.of algae and diatoms.on rocks in a stream and cause
periodic algal blooms in reservoirs downstream. Slippery green mats of algae in a stream, or
blooms of algae in a lake are usually the result of an introduction of excessive phosphorus into
the system that has caused algae or aquatic plants to grow at abnormally high rates.
13

[_sites —0—eve coed
120
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pacolel River watershed
.
watershed
100
60
E
0 60
L
E
0
'
40
20
0
V U
U
x Y
U U U N
K
U
U
c
m
O
O O
m
o
mL
v.
m
a a IL
_
h
-h 16
Figure 6: Median conductivity levels for each VWIN site in Polk County compared with the
average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina -
'Iiiii=iiitsites —O—ave mad
2.5
-
Green River
While Oak Creek
North Pacolel Riverwatershed
watershed
2
1.5
6
O.
O
a
n
a i
0.5
--
0
V
'
m
c 2G
N
Y W .YN
O O O O m
m m S
O
E
a a a
N b r <
Figure 7 Median copper concentrations for each VWIN site in Polk County compared with
the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina
f

111�sltes —*—eve med
0.8
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pacolet Riverwatershed
watershed
0.7
0.6
0.5
v
m
a 0.4..
a
a
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
m O O O O O ' 8 1.2 o
O E m m m m a a a x
N
IL
• o Z. Z rZn
N a a
Figure 8: Median lead concentrations for -each WIN site'in Polk County compared with
the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring. region in Western North Carolina
7 .
�siles eve mad
Green River
White Oak Creek
North Pacolet Riverwatershed
watershed
6
5
m 4
c
N
a
n
n 3
2
1
•
0
O
'O O
O O 01
m
-
8 8 O
o
O
05
s
m
a a as .
n
6
Figure 9: Median zinc concentrations for'each VWIN site in Polk County compared with
the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North Carolina .
15

Eutrophication is the term used to describe this growth of algae due to an over abundance of a
limiting nutrient. In this report orthophosphate (PO4) is reported as concentrations" PO4.
To isolate phosphorus (P) from the measurement, divide the reported amount by. three.
Orthophosphate is a measure of the dissolved phosphorus which is immediately available
to plants or algae. Orthophosphate is also referred to as phosphorus in solution. There is no legal
water quality standard, -but generally levels must be below 0.05 mg/l to prevent downstream
eutrophication. The normal ambient level of orthophosphate in undisturbed streams is about 0.01
to 0.03 mg/l.
Figure 10 shows median orthophosphate concentrations at each site. compared with the
average median for the region. Wastewater treatment plants often have a very significant
influence on orthophosphate concentrations. Zinc -orthophosphate is often added to the drinking
water supply of towns and cities to protect pipes from leaching metals into the water. However,
the orthophosphate is not removed in the wastewater treatment process. Orthophosphate is not a
toxic substance and poses no threat to human health, but excessive amounts in surface water can
cause excessive algae and plant growth to occur.
All three sites that show.the highest median concentration of orthophosphate are
downstream from wastewater treatment plants. The site on White Oak Creek just downstream
from the Columbus wastewater treatment plant (site 14) shows only slightly increased
concentrations of orthophosphate and by the time White Oak Creek reaches the most downstream
site (site 4) on Moore Road, the concentrations have been diluted back to normal levels. Site 10
on Joels Creek downstream from the Saluda wastewater treatment plant and site 7 on the North
Pacolet River downstream from the Tryon wastewater treatment plant show much greater
concentrations of orthophosphate. Joels Creek is a relatively small stream that may not be able to
dilute the effluent as much as is desirable, but the North Pacolet River is a much larger stream,
therefore effluent.from the Tryon wastewater treatment plant may have a much higher
concentration of orthophosphate when it leaves the plant.
There are other possible sources of orthophosphate to the North Pacolet River, such as
livestock waste or fertilizer runoff, and these should be investigated. The two upstream sites on
the North Pacolet River (sites 15 and 16) do not show these high concentrations. Also, it should
be noted that trend analysis shows orthophosphate concentrations decreasing as water flow
increases which would indicate a point source. Conversely, site 4 on White Oak Creek and site
10 on Joels Creek show orthophosphate concentrations increasing as water flow increases
indicating some significant non -point sources from runoff. Although most sites show
orthophosphate concentrations increasing over time, site 7 on the North Pacolet River shows
concentrations decreasing over time. Perhaps some changes in the water treatment process have
been made recently.
F. Ammonia Nitrogen (NI13) and Nitrate/nitrite Nitrogen (NO3/NO2): Nitrogen is contained
in the remains of decaying wastes of plants and animals. Some species of bacteria and fungi
decompose these wastes and NH3 is formed. The normal ambient level is approximately 0.10
mg/l, -and elevated levels of NH3 can be toxic to fish. Although the actual toxicity depends on the
pH of the water, the proposed ambient standard to protect trout waters is 1.0 mg/1 in summer and
2.0 mg/l. in winter. The most probable sources of ammonia nitrogen are agricultural runoff,
livestock farming, septic drainage and sewage treatment plant discharges.
16

sites -o--averred
0.4
Green River
White Oak Creek
Nort
h Pacolet River watershed
Figure 10: Median orthophosphate concentrations for each VWIN site in Polk County
compared with the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western
North Carolina
17

Like phosphorus, NO3/NO2 serves as an algal nutrient contributing to excessive stream
and reservoir algal growth. In addition, nitrate is highly toxic to infants and the unborn causing
inhibition of oxygen transfer in the blood stream at high doses. This condition is known as "blue -
baby" disease. This is the basis for the 10'mg/L national drinking water standard. The ambient
standard to protect aquatic ecosystems is 10 mg/L as well. The most probable sources are septic
drainage and fertilizer runoff from agricultural land and domestic lawns.
Nitrogen is not a significant problem at Polk County VWIN sites. In fact, only a few sites
show median levels higher than the average median for the region (Figures 11 and 12). Median
ammonia -nitrogen concentrations are higher than average at site 13 on the Green River and site
10 on Joels Creek. The Green River site is just down stream from the Lake Adger dam and water
flowing from the lake may be coming from areas where more breakdown of plant and animal
matter are occurring. The Joels Creek site may be affected by the effluent from the Saluda
wastewater treatment plant or break down of excessive growth in the stream itself. Nitrate
concentrations are also somewhat elevated at both sites on Joels Creek. Some of the sites with
higher than average median nitrate concentrations may be receiving runoff from livestock areas,
greenhouses, golf courses, or other areas where large amounts of fertilizer are used.
Several sites show nitrate concentrations increasing as water flow increases, including
sites 2 and 4 on White Oak Creek, site 6 on Horse Creek, site 7 on the North Pacolet River, and
site 9 on Joels Creek. Surface runoff is the most likely source under these conditions. Site 4 on
White Oak Creek and sites 9 and 10 on Joels Creek show nitrate concentrations increasing over
time. Four sites show seasonal trends in nitrate concentrations. All four show lowest
concentrations in fall, but the two sites on Horse Creek (5 and 6) show highest concentrations in
winter'and site 4 on White Oak Creek and site 7 on the North Pacolet River show highest in
summer.. High concentrations in winter are often an indication of livestock confined to areas
near the stream.
We

0.16
0.14
•0.12
m
c 0.1
4
m
c 0.06
EE
0.06
E
0.04
0.02
!_sites --*—eve med
Green River White Oak'Creek North Pacolet River watershed
watershed
u cYi -Ixo U U U U u r•; �. �. ri.
Figure 11: Median ammonia -nitrogen concentrations at each VWIN monitoring site in.
Polk County compared with the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring
region in Western North Carolina
Iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiisites --*—eve med -
1
Green River
While Oak Creek
North Pa_colel Riverwetershed
0.9
watershed
-
0.6
0.7
m
4 0.6
m
z
a 0.e
e
-
z o.4
E 0.3
0.2
0.1
0
A ill i i
E o. a a
E
n
6
Figure 12: Median nitrate -nitrogen concentrations for each site in.Polk County compai
with the average median for all sites in the VWIN monitoring region in Western North
Carolina .
19

IV. Summary and Conclusions
Chemical analysis of samples collected at Polk County sites are intended to characterize
the water quality relative to the parameters established by the Volunteer Water Information
Network program. Information from the program can be used by concerned groups and
individuals to help identify problems and evaluate solutions. Characterizing the water quality of
the county is a complex task, and interpretation of the data can be difficult due to many factors.
With continued long term monitoring; however, various trends become more evident. The
VWIN program is currently monitoring 175 sites in seven Western North Carolina counties. A
comparison of Polk County stream sites with all other sites in the program is presented in
Appendix D. Summarized observations and trends for Polk County stream sites are presented
below:
Polk County is largely rural and lightly populated. There are three small towns in the
county, Saluda, Tryon, and Columbus. Much of the county is forested, but also logged. The
most populated areas of the county and those used mainly for agriculture are in the White Oak
Creek and North Pacolet River watersheds. The Green River watershed is more heavily forested,
but development is increasing in the area.
The Green River Watershed
Includes Demannu Creek, Camp Creek, and the Green River
Demannu Creek follows Garrett Street northeast and passes on the north side of the Polk
County landfill. At Hwy 9 it turns and follows on the east side of the highway north and empties
into the Green River at a popular swimming hole just downstream from the dam on Lake Adger.
Demannu Creek continues to rate only fair. Stream sedimentation is the most serious problem
for Demannu Creek. Turbidity levels often exceed trout standards even during dry weather
conditions. There may be a large amount of sediment built up in the bottom of the stream, but
the many ponds flowing into the stream may also be adding large amounts of organic matter and
very fine sediment. One positive note is that trend analysis shows sediment concentrations
decreasing over time. There have been some long dry periods over the past two years and this
may be a factor in this trend as less runoff may have occurred.
Camp Creek flows into the Green River west of Saluda. Camp Creek has been monitored
for over a year now and rates good. Poor water clarity is also a problem in this stream and,
although no heavy rains have occurred during any of the monitoring events, even the moderate
rains cause disturbance to this stream. Phosphorus concentration have also been relatively
elevated at times.
The site on the Green River is the only site in Polk County to receive an excellent rating.
This site is just below the Lake Adger dam. There are three additional sites on the Green River
in Henderson County, and they are also rated excellent. Stream sedimentation. is not a significant
problem at this site and all other parameters measured except ammonia -nitrogen also show levels
below average for the region. The Green River flows mostly through forested areas and Lake
Adger acts as a sedimentation basin for any sediment that may come down the river. The slightly
20

higher than average ammonia -nitrogen levels may be the result of decomposition of organic
matter near the dam in Lake Adger.
The White Oak Creek Watershed
Includes five sites on White Oak Creek
White Oak Creek is actually a tributary of the Green River, but this watershed drains a
large portion of the county and is discussed separately here. The two most upstream sites and the
most downstream site on White Oak Creek have been monitored for six years, but the two sites
east and west of highway'9 have been monitored for a little less than two years. All but the most
downstream site on White Oak Creek rate good. The most'downstream site rates fair. The
greatest difference in water quality is in its clarity. The most downstream site shows much
poorer water clarity than the upstream sites and, in fact, even median turbidity levels exceed 10
NTU (Figure 13). All other sites are near or below the average for the region. Median sediment
median Curb ---O—median lss ave mad Curb -- •ave rn tss
12
10
-----•------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --- ------------
8 g
_______________________•--•-----------------------__-------------------•--_----_--_-----------,;,,..........
c�
rn
E
y
N
F-
f6
........_;................................................................ ............ ....... ...........
Z_
'o
~ 4
-------------------------- -----
2
---------------------------•-------------------------------•----- --------------------------------------
0
at Houston Rd at Fox Mt Rd at Briar Hill Farm at Weidman's at Moore Rd
Figure 13: Median turbidity levels and suspended solids concentrations for each site on
White Oak Creek from upstream to downstream compared with the average medians for
the region
concentrations are also higher than average for the region at the downstream site. Surface runoff
is a problem for much of White Oak Creek during rain events, but the most downstream site
shows more chronic sedimentation and poor water clarity. Perhaps much of the sediment has
built up in this section of the stream. Bank erosion may also be a factor. Almost every
parameter measured shows increasing concentrations as water flow increases at the downstream
site. This is a key indication of non -point source pollution from erosion and runoff. A stream
21

walk to check possible sediment sources and bank erosion sites is suggested. The downstream
site also shows several parameters, such as conductivity, copper, orthophosphate, and nitrate -
nitrogen, increasing over time. Dryer weather may be a factor as less dilution would be taking
place.
Almost all streams that receive effluent from -wastewater treatment plants show elevated
orthophosphate levels. Zinc -orthophosphate is often added to drinking water supplies to help
prevent leaching of various metals from water pipes_ into drinking water:. However, the .
phosphorus is generally not removed during the wastewater treatment process. Often the amount
of orthophosphate in the stream water is related to the amount of effluent in relation to the size of
the stream. Small amounts of effluent flowing into large streams show very little effect from the
addition of orthophosphate and larger amounts of effluent flowing into smaller streams may
show a very great effect. Median orthophosphate concentrations in the three streams receiving
effluent from wastewater treatment plants in Polk County as well as those in other area counties
monitored by the VWIN program can be seen in Figure 14. As can be seen, the Columbus
wastewater treatment plant adds to orthophosphate concentration in- White Oak Creek by only a.
relatively small amount and even this is diluted back to normal levels by the time the stream
reaches Moore Road. Ammonia -nitrogen concentration_ s also increase at the site downstream
from the plant, but are still within normal range.
0.5
0.45
0.4
0.35
0.3
J
m 0.25
E
0.2
0.15
0.1
0.05
0
iiiiiiIiiiiIWWTP site median -o--ave median
Columbus Saluda Tryon drevard Etowah Hendersonville Asheville ' Mars Hill
(WOC) (Joels Cr). (Paeolet R) (FBR) (Gash Cr). (Mud Cr) (FBR) (Gabriel Cr)
Figure 14:. Median orthophosphate concentrations at VWIN sites downstream from
wastewater treatment.plants in the Western North Carolina region compared with the
average median concentrations for all sites in the region
22.

The North Pacolet River Watershed
Includes two sites on Horse Creek, two sites on Joel's Creek,
and three sites on the North Pacolet River
The North Pacolet River flows east from the southwestern edge of Polk County south of
Saluda, passes north of Tryon, and then flows down into South Carolina. The two upstream sites
on the North Pacolet River have been monitored for a little less than two years, but the
downstream site has been monitored for seven years. The two upstream sites rate good and the
downstream site rates fair. The two monitored tributaries, Joels Creek and Horse Creek, both
have some water quality problems. The two upstream sites rate good and the two downstream
sites rate fair.
Both sites on Joels Creek show median sediment concentrations slightly higher than
average for the region and both also show nitrate -nitrogen concentrations greater than average for
the region. Both problems are probably related to surface runoff from agriculture and/or
populated areas. The greatest difference in water quality of the two sites is with orthophosphate
and ammonia -nitrogen concentrations. Joels Creek is a relatively small stream and it is receiving
the wastewater effluent from the town of Saluda. As -discussed earlier, the dilution rate is often a
key element in nutrient concentrations downstream from wastewater treatment plants. Joels
Creek flows into the North Pacolet River, but the elevated nutrient concentrations show little
effect on the river, probably because the volume of water is adequate to dilute the nutrients
flowing into the river from Joels Creek. The downstream site on Joels Creek shows many
parameters, including pH, conductivity, and nutrients, increasing over time, but sediment
concentrations decreasing over time. Again, dry weather conditions may be influencing these
trends.
Horse Creek shows some less typical trends. The upstream site suffers from chronic
elevated turbidity levels and sediment concentrations while the downstream site shows these
parameters as being particularly elevated during heavy rains. The upstream site exhibited
turbidity levels exceeding 10 NTU (the trout standard) on 67% of the samples collected in the
past year. Sediment concentrations are almost always the highest in the county each month at
this site. The upstream site also exhibits a very atypical trend of increasing pH, alkalinity; and
conductivity levels as water flow increases. Ammonia -nitrogen concentrations also increase as
flow.increases. Investigating possible sources of pollutants to the upstream area is suggested.
The two relatively new sites in the upstream sections of the North Pacolet River have
- shown few water quality problems other than sedimentation during rains. No major rain storms
have occurred during monitoring events, but moderate rains have produced fairly significant
siltation for a stream used for recreational purposes. The downstream site at South River Road
shows unusually elevated phosphorus and conductivity levels as well. Wastewater effluent from
the town of Tryon flowing into Vaughn Creek which flows into the North Pacolet River upstream
of the monitoring site may be a significant factor, but other commercial and industrial sources
may also play a significant role. As can be seen in Figure 14, the North Pacolet River has one of
the highest concentrations of orthophosphate of any of the streams in the area that are receiving
wastewater effluent and this is despite the North Pacolet River being a relatively large receiving
stream. All potential sources of phosphorus and chemical salts to the downstream section of the
PAI

river should be investigated as it seems likely that there is more than one and there may be
several sources.
The downstream site on the North Pacolet River also shows many long term trends. As
water flow increases, water clarity becomes poorer, sedimentation increases, and heavy metals
and nitrate concentrations increase which indicate this site is receiving non -point source
pollutants from erosion and runoff. Conductivity (chemical salts) and phosphorus concentrations
increase as water flow decreases indicating the site is also receiving point -source pollutants. All
potential sources of pollutants to this section of the river should be investigated.
Polk County has many beautiful waterways that are well worth protecting. The Green
River in the northern part of the county is already protected to a large extent upstream from Lake
Adger by the formation of the Green River Gamelands' and there is a continuing effort to change
the status of the headwaters of the Green River in Henderson County to High Quality Waters.
White Oak Creek is a major tributary of the Green River and drains a large portion of Polk
County before joining the Green River on the eastern edge of the county. The Green River is a
-� tremendous natural resource that is highly valued for recreation, wildlife,. and for its natural
beauty. The North Pacolet River gorge in the southwestern section of the county is another
spectacular sight that helps makes Polk County such an attractive area.
The low population density of Polk County as well as local efforts to protect water
resources have helped maintain water quality. While several other counties in the region show a
large percentage of VWIN monitoring sites rated with poor water_ quality, there are none in Polk
County. It should be noted, though, that the North Carolina Division of Water Quality does have
one stream in Polk County, Walnut Creek - a tributary of the Green River in the northern part of
the county, listed as impaired.
While water quality is generally good in Polk County, continued growth and development
can have serious detrimental effects on water quality if proper controls are not maintained.
Management of erosion and runoff from construction sites and roads is vital as is proper
management of animal waste and wastewater. Prevention of stream degradation is much easier
and more economical than correction of problems after they have occurred.
24

APPENDIX A: Sample Data Sheet
Volunteer Water Information Network
Pollc County
1) Sample Site Number
2) Sample Site Name
3) Collection Date
4) Time Collected
5) Temperature at drop-off site (in'cooler)
6) Volunteer's Name
7) Volunteer Is Phone# &/or Email:
(please provide current mailing address if there has been a change)
8 ) Water Flow Rate (please circle one) Very High High Normal Low
9) Type of Rain in past 3 days (please circle one) Heavy Medium Light Dry
10) Stream Flow Measurement feet inches
11) General Observations (turbidity, waste matter, dead animals
upstream, anything out of the ordinary).
Parameter Results (For Lab Use Only)
Parameter and Result Date of Analysis
NH3 ma/L
NO3 mg/L
Pt -total sample: / mg/L
Po ma/L
Turb NTU
TSS g/250mL
Cond umhos/cm .
Alk mL acid
Cu ppb
Zn ppb

Appendix B: Laboratory Analysis
Samples are kept refrigerated until they are delivered to the EQI laboratory on the
Monday morning following Saturday collections. Methods follow EPA or Standard Methods for
the Examination of Water and Wastewater- 1 8th Edition techniques and the EQI laboratory is
certified by the State of North Carolina for water and wastewater analysis of orthophosphate,
totaf phosphorus, ammonia -nitrogen, turbidity, total suspended solids, pH, conductivity, copper,
lead, and zinc. All samples are kept refrigerated until the time of analysis. Analysis for nitrogen,
phosphorus, pH, turbidity and conductivity are completed within 48 hours of the collection time.
As pH cannot be tested on site, the holding time for pH is exceeded. When immediate analysis
does not occur, such as for total phosphorus and heavy metals, the samples are preserved by
acidification and kept refrigerated.
Explanations about the procedures and instruments used in the EQI lab are quite technical
in nature and will be omitted from this report. Detailed information is available on request. The
detection limits of the instruments used have been provided.
PARAMETER
Ammonia Nitrogen
Nitrate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Orthophosphate
Alkalinity
Total Suspended Solids
Conductivity
Turbidity
Copper
Zinc
Lead
pH
Approximate Analytical Detection Limits
for VWIN Water Quality Parameters.
DETECTION LIMIT UNITS
0.02
ppm
0.1
ppm
0.02
ppm
0.02
ppm
1.0
ppm
1.0
ppm
10.0
umho/cm
1.0
NTU
2.0
ppb
20.0
ppb
2.0
ppb
n/a
n/a

Appendix C: Parameters and Ranges for Stream Quality Classifications
pH -
Grade A= never less than 6.0
Grade B= between 5.0 and 6.0 less than 10% of samples
Grade C= between 5.0 and 6.0 more than 10% of samples
Grade D= at least one sample was less 5.0.
Alkalinity -
Grade A= median greater than 40 mg\L (indicates moderate vulnerability to
acidic inputs)
Grade B= median 30-40 mg\L (indicates vulnerability to acidic inputs)
Grade C= median less than 30 mg\L (considered to be very vulnerable to acidic
inputs).
Grade D= median less than 15 ppm (extremely vulnurable to acidic inputs)
Turbidity -
Grade A= never exceeded the standard for trout waters of 10 NTU
Grade B= exceeded 10 NTU but never exceeded the 50 NTU standard
Grade C= exceeded 50 NTU in less than 10% of samples
Grade D= exceeded 50 NTU in more than 10% of samples.
—� Total Suspended Solids -
Grade A= maximum less than 30 mg\L - not measurably disturbed by human
activities
^j 'Grade B= maximum 30=100 mg\L - low to moderate disturbance
Grade C= maximum greater than 100 mg\L - moderate to high disturbance.
Grade D= maximum greater than 200 ppm - high level of land disturbance
Conductivity -
Grade A= maximum less than 30 umho
Grade B= maximum greater than 30 umho but less than 100 umho
Grade C= exceeded 100 umho in less than 10% of samples
Grade D= exceeded 100 umho in more than 10% of samples.
Total Copper -
Grade A= never exceeded water quality standard of 7 ppb
Grade B= exceeded 7 ppb in less than 10% of samples
Grade C= exceeded 7 ppb in- more than 10% of samples, but never exceeded
60 ppb
Grade D= at least one sample had a concentration greater 60 ppb (indicates
significant periodic copper inputs).
Total Lead -
Grade A= never exceeded water quality standard of 10 ppb
_ Grade B= exceeded 10 ppb in less than 10% of samples
Grade C= exceeded 10 ppb in more than 10% of samples, but never exceeded
50 ppb
Grade D= at least one sample had a concentration greater than 50 ppb (indicates
significant periodic lead inputs). .

Appendix C (continued)
Total Zinc
Grade A= never exceeded water quality standard -of 50 ppb
Grade B= exceeded 50 ppb in less than 10% of samples
Grade C= exceeded 50 ppb in more than 10% of samples, but never exceeded
100 ppb
Grade D= at least one sample had a concentration greater than 100 ppb (indicates
significant periodic zinc inputs).
Total Phosphorous -
Grade A= median never exceeded 0.10 mg\L
Grade B= median greater than 0.10 mg\L but less than 0.20 mg\L.
Grade C= median greater than 0.20 mg\L but less than 0.30 mg\L
Grade D= median greater then 0.30 mg\L
Orthophosphate - .
Grade A= median less than ambient level of 0.05 mg\L
Grade B= median between 0.05 mg\L but less than 0.10 mg\L
Grade C= median greater than 0.10 mg\L but less than 0.20 mg\L
Grade D= median greater then 0.20 mg\L.
Ammonia Nitrogen -
Grade A= never exceeded 0.50 mg\L
Grade B= never exceeded the proposed ambient standard for trout waters in -the
summer -of 1 mg\L
Grade C= exceeded 1 mg\L in less than 10% of samples, but never exceeded 2mg\L
Grade D= exceeded 1 mg\L in more than 10% of samples, or at least one sample
_ had a concentration greater than the proposed ambient standard for trout
waters in the winter of 2.0 mg\L.
Nitrate Nitrogen -
Grade A= median did not exceed 0.2 mg\L and no sample exceeded 1.0 mg\L
Grade B= median- greater than 0.2 mg\L, but no sample exceeded 1.0. mg\L
Grade C= at least one sample had a concentration greater than 1.0 mg\L but less
than 10.0 mg\L
Grade D= at least one sample had a concentration that exceeded the drinking_ water
standard of 10.0 mg\L.

Appendix D: Stream Ranking for all VWIN Sites
B = Buncombe County
H = Henderson County
HY = Haywood County
LL = Lake Lure
M = Madison County
P = Polk County
T = Transylvania County
Excellent
score %
site #
site name
100
HY-3
East Fork of the Pigeon River at Cruso
HY-16
Sorrell's Creek upstream from trout farm (Pigeon River watershed)
T-16
Little River at Sherwood Forest
98
H-7
North Fork of the Mills River
HY71
West Fork of the Pigeon River at Bethel
T-13
Lamb Creek headwaters
T-18
North Fork of French Broad River upstream
'95
T-8
Williamson Creek
93
B-28
Bent Creek downstream of Lake Powhatan
H-10
Mills River at Hooper Lane
H-11
Green River downstream of Lake Summit
H-12
Green River at Terry's Creek Road
HY-2
East Fork of the Pigeon River at Bethel
T-19
West Fork of French Broad River upstream
T-20
Cathey's Creek upstream from water supply
90
H-22
Hoopers Creek at Jackson Road (Cane Creek watershed)
HY-10
Richland Creek upstream from Waynesville
LL-9
Buffalo Creek (Broad River watershed)
P-13
Green River at Hwy 9
T-9
Davidson River at entrance to Pisgah National Forest
T-10
King Creek at Brevard College
T-14
Lamb Creek at confluence with French Broad River
T-15
French Broad River at Wilson Road
88
B-1113
South Hominy Creek
H-6
Crab Creek (Little River watershed)
H-19
Green River at Old Hwy 25 S
Good
93*
H-28
Shaw Creek at Hunters Glen
90*
B-22
Ivy Creek at Dillingham Road
B-24
Swannanoa Confluence with North Fork
T-11
King Creek headwaters
88*
P-14
White Oak Creek at Briar Hill Farm
P-17
White Oak Creek at Weidman's
T-12
Davidson River at confluence of French Broad River
85
B-5A
Ox Creek at Reems Creek (Reems Creek watershed)
B-913
Swannanoa River at Beetree Creek
B-38
Swannanoa River at Bull Creek
H-13
Big Hungry River downstream of dam (Green River, watershed)
M-8
Little Laurel Creek (Laurel River watershed)
M-12
Grapevine Creek (Ivy River watershed)
P-2
White Oak Creek at S.R. 1531
P-15
N. Pacolet River at Melrose
83
B-10
Bull Creek at Swannanoa River (Swannanoa River watershed)
B-12A
Bent Creek at SR 191
B-16B
Robinson Creek near Cane Creek (Cane Creek watershed)
B-20
Ivy Creek at Buckner Branch
H-2
French. Broad River at Butler Bridge
H-5
Clear Creek at Nix Road (Mud Creek watershed)
H-20
Clear Creek at Bearwallow Community (Mud Creek watershed)
H-21
Mud Creek at Berea Church Road
H-26
Brittain Creek at Patton Park (Mud Creek watershed)
H-29
Brandy Branch at Mills River Village off NC 191 (Mills River watershed)
HY-9
Plott Creek in Hazelwood (Richland Creek watershed)
P-9
Joel's Creek upstream of Saluda WWTP (N. Pacolet River watershed)

P-16
N. Pacolet River at NC 108
T-3
Middle Fork of French Broad River at Rosman
T-4
North Fork of French Broad River at 64/215
80 B-3A
Upper Sandymush Creek
B-19
Broad River at SR 9
H-3
Mud Creek at Erkwood Road
H-9
Mills River at Davenport Bridge
H-17
Cane Creek at NC 25
HY-11
Richland Creek at Lake Junaluska
LL-4
Broad River at Chimney Rock
LL-6
Pool Creek (Broad River watershed)
M-7
Spring Creek
P-1
White Oak Creek at S.R. 1137
P-5
Horse Creek upstream at S.R. 1153
P-18
Camp Creek (Green River watershed)
T-1
French Broad River at Rosman
78 B-IA
Big Ivy at Forks of Ivy
B-513
Reems Creek at Ox Creek Rd
H-1
French Broad River at Banner Farm Road
H-30
Devils Fork at Dana Road (Mud Creek watershed)
HY-8
Eaglenest Creek in Hazelwood (Richland Creek watershed)
HY-15
Fines Creek upstream
LL-2
Hickory Creek at Bat Cave (Broad River watershed)
LL-10
Fairfield Mountains Creek (Broad River watershed)
M-6
Big Pine Creek
T-7
French Broad River at Everett Road
75 B-33
North Fork of the Swannanoa River at Grovestone Quarry
HY-12
Jonathans Creek near confluence with Pigeon River
HY-13
Allens Creek (Richland Creek watershed)
Fair
90*
HY-17
Sorrell's Creek downstream of trout farm
88*
HY-18
Sorrell's Creek trout farm effluent
85*
T-6
Little River at Dupont Road
83*
H-15
Bat Fork Creek (Mud Creek watershed)
80*
B-9A
Beetree Creek at Lake Owen (Swannanoa River watershed)
T-2
East Fork French Broad River at Rosman
78*
B-39
South Creek at Beaver Lake
B-41
Ross Creek at Tunnel Road (Swannanoa R watershed)
P-10
Joel's Creek downstream of Saluda WWTP (N. Pacolet River watershed)
T-17
North Fork of French Broad River at Macedonia Bridge
75*
B-43
Ross Creek at Swannanoa River (Swannanoa R. watershed)
M-15
Paint Fork (Ivy River watershed)
73
B-8
Beaverdam Creek at Beaver Lake
B-15A
Cane Creek at Hwy 74
B-18
Reems Creek at Reems Creek Road
B-29
Avery's Creek at Glenn Bridge Road
B-40
Ross Creek at lower Chunns Cove Road bridge (Swannanoa R. watershed)
B-42
Ross Creek at upper Chunns Cove (Swannanoa R. watershed)
H-18
Mud Creek at 7th Avenue
LL-1
Reedypatch Creek at Bat Cave (Broad River watershed)
LL-5
Broad River at Lake Lure
P-4
White Oak Creek at S.R. 1322
P-8
Demannu Creek at S.R. 1140 (Green River watershed)
70
B-2
Lower Sandymush Creek
B-3B
Sandymush Creek at Willow Creek
B-11A
Hominy Creek upstream near Candler
B-15B
Ashworth Creek at Cane Creek (Cane Creek watershed)
B-16A
Cane Creek at Mills Gap Road
H-16
Cane Creek at Howard Gap Road
LL-7
Public Golf Course Creek (Broad River watershed)
LL-8
Cane Creek (Broad River watershed)
M-4
East Fork Bull Creek (Ivy River watershed)
P-6
Horse Creek at S.R. 1516
P-7
N. Pacolet River at S.R. 1516
T-5
West Fork of the French Broad River at 64/215
68
B-4
Lower Newfound Creek
B-14
Lower Flat Creek
B-17A
Swannanoa River at NC 81

B-21
Paint Fork (Ivy River watershed)
9-23
French Broad River at Jean Webb Park (Asheville)
B-26
North Turkey Creek at N. Turkey Creek Rd (Sandymush Creek watershed)
HY-14
Rush Fork upstream
M-11
Bull Creek (Ivy River watershed)
M-16
Gabriel Creek (Ivy River watershed)
65
6B
Reems Creek at US 25/70
B-7A
Reed Creek at UNCA Botanical Gardens
B-31
Swannanoa River at Grassy Branch confluence
B-35
Smith Mill Creek at Louisiana Blvd. (Asheville)
B-36
Newfound Creek at Dark Cove Road
H-8
South Fork of Mills River
LL-3
Broad River at Bat Cave
M-5
Laurel Creek
63
B-12B
French Broad River at Bent Creek
M-9
Shelton Laurel
M-14
Middle Fork (Ivy River watershed)
Poor
60
B-17B
Haw Creek at NC 81 (Swannanoa River watershed)
H-4
Mud Creek at Rugby Road
H-23
Big Willow Creek at Patterson Road
HY-4
Pigeon River at Canton
M-3
French Broad River at Hot Springs
M-10
Laurel River downstream
55
B-25
South Turkey Creek (Sandymush Creek watershed)
B-27
Flat Creek at US 19/23
H-14
Boylston Creek at Ladson Road
H-27
Mill Pond Creek at South Rugby Road
HY-5
Pigeon River at Hepco
HY-7
Fines Creek near confluence with Pigeon River
53
B-6A
French Broad River at the Ledges Park (downstream
of Asheville)
B-7B
Glenn Creek at the Botanical Gardens (Reed Creek watershed)
B-32
French Broad River at Buncombe/Madison border
HY-6
Rush Fork at Crabtree
50
B-113
Little Ivy Creek at Forks of Ivy
B-30
Grassy Branch (Swannanoa River watershed)
H-24
Little Willow Creek at River Road
H-25
Gash Creek at Etowah School Road
M-1
Ivy River at 25/70
48
B-37
Newfound Creek at Leicester Hwy
45
M-2
French Broad River at Barnard Bridge
M-13
California Creek (Ivy River watershed)
40
B-13
French Broad River at Corcoran Park
B-34
Lower Hominy Creek at SR 191
*Site would rank higher except for extreme conditions in one or two parameters
PERCENT OF SITES IN EACH CATEGORY
Coun - /Area
Excellent Good Fair
Poor
Buncombe
4% 26% 50%
20%
Henderson
23% 44% 13%
20%
Haywood
28% 33% 17%
22%
Lake Lure
10% 40% 50%
0%
Madison
0% 25% 44%
31%
Polk
7% 60% 33%
0%
Transylvania
50% 30% 20%
0%

Appendix E: Data Summary
Site the number assigned to the VWIN site
Sample # the number of samples collected for each parameter
Low minimum value of any sample(s)
Median median value of the results based on the range of the results
High maximum value of any sample(s)
pH
aih
sample*
low
median
high
1
83
6.0
7.0
7.4
2
84
6.2
7.0
7.5
4
80
5.9
7.1
7.7
5
84
6.4
7.1
7.5
6
81
5.9
7.1
7.4
7
84
6.2
7.1
7.6
8
83
6.5
7.1
7.5
9
59.
6.3
7.1
7.5
10
83
6.4
7.1
7.3
13
33
6.5
6.9
7..2
14
23
6.9
7.2
7.5
15
23
7.0
7.3
7.5
16
23
6.9
-7.2
7.4
17
18
6.9
7.2
7.3
18
15
6.9
7.2
7.3
Turbidity (NTU)
aitq
sam Ike#
low median
high
1
84
<1
6
98
2
84
<1
5
63
4
80
<1
11
135
5
84
<1
11
55
6
81
<1
6
178
7
84
<1
6
159
8
83
2.0
12
124
9
59
<1
5
16
10
83
<1
7
43
13
33
1.5
4
16
14
23
1.3
4
13
15
23
0.8
5
34
16
23
0.8
4
55
17-
18
1.9
6
16
18
15
1.4
7
65
Alkalinity (mg/L CaCO3)
i e
sample
low
median
high
1
84
2
22
36
2
84
12
28
64
4
80
14
21
38
5
83
12
18.
114
6
81
13
22
142
7
84
9
23
172
8
83
8
23
196
9
59
9
21
45
10
83
6
20
26
13
33
11
16
26 .
14,
23
20
28
36
15
23
14
16
48
16
23
12
21
26
17
18
18
22
29
18
15
14
16
21
sam Ike#
low
min
high
1
81
<1
6.0
250
2
79
<1
1.6
398
4
77
<1
8.0
345
5
82
<1
19.0
120
6
76
<1
2.4
339
7
81
<1
9.2
330
8
81
<1
12.0
112
9
58
<1
9.0
77
10
81
<1
10.4
46
13
33
<1
1.2
4
14
23
<1
1.2
17
15
23
<1
4.8
33
16
23
<1
3.2
70
17
18
<1
2.4
8
18
15
2.0
9.2
74
< = below detection limits

Appendix E: Continued
Conductivity (umho/cm)
afte
sampled
low
median
high
1
83
25
47
60
2
83
36
57
68
4.
79
39
50
69
5
83
32
40
58
6
80
30
50
69
7
83
14
104
1990
8
82
32
44
102
9
59
33
55
81
10
82
38
M
86
13
33
25
32
38
14
23
46
58
69
15
23
31
37
43
16
23
39
49
68
17
18
26
58
68
18
15
30
34
38
Lead (ppb)
ak
sam Ike#
low
IDedean
b1g.h
1
83
<2
0.2
8.9
2
84
<2
0.1
13.3
4
80
<2
0.3
18.8
5
84
<2
0.5
20.2
6
80
<2
0.1
13.6
7
84
<2
0.4
18.1
8
83
<2
0.4
3.4
9
58
<2
0.7
5.8
10
83
.<2
0.5
6.3
13
33
<2
0.3
2.7
14
23
<2
0.2
4.4
15
23
<2
0.3
2.3
16
22
<2
0.2
2.3
17
18
<2
0.1
. 0.9
18
15
<2
0.4
4.1
Copper (ppb)
sam Ike#
Im
median
hLo
1
83
<2
0.8
41.0
2
84
<2
0.4
23.6.
4 '
80
<2
0.8
36.6,
5
84
<2
1.2
10.0,�
6
81
<2
0.3
36.5
7
84
<2
2.1
19.0
8
83
<2
0.4
4.7
9
59
<2
0.6
5.9
10
83
<2
0.9
5.7
13
33
<2
0.5
13.1
14
23
<2.
0.8
2.8
15
23
<2
0.4
2.8
16
23
<2
0.4
3.8
17
18
<2
0.9
3.4
18
15
<2
0.4
2.5
Zinc (ppb)
ak
sam Ike#
low
median'
high
1
82
<20
2.6
216.7
2
.83
<20
1.6
154.0
4
79
<20
4.3
304.7
5
83
<20
3.1
29.0,
6
80
<20
2.4
201.3
7
83
<20
4.6
47.6
8
82
<20
1.8
22.8
9
58
<20
4.2
17.8
10
82
<20
6.5
43.7
13
32
<20
0.2
12.6
14
23
<20
0.4
7.5
15
23
<20
0.0
119
16
23
<20
0.1
18.0
17
18
<20
0.4
7.6
18
15
<20
0.9
9.9
< = below detection limits .

Appendix E: Continued
Orthophosphate (mg/L as PO4)
site
same
low
median
rlgh
1
84
<0.02
0.05
0.34
2
84
<0.02
0.05
0.48
4
80
0.02
0.08
1.63
5
84
<0.02-
0.04
0.34
6-
81 _
<0.02
0.04
0.43
7.
84
<0.02
0.36
2.09
8
83
<0.02
0.05
0.57
9
59
<0.02
0.07
0.40
10
83
0.06
0.35
1.00
13
33
<0.02
0.03
0.14�
14
23 _
0.05
0.16
0.42
15
23
0.04
0.08
0.33
16
23'
<0.02
6.08
0.30
17
18
0.06
0.14
0.34
1.8
15
0.02
0.10
0.25
Nitrate/nitrite Nitrogen (mg/L)
site
sam
Ike# 10
median
high
1
84
<0.1
0.2
0.9
2
84
<0.1
0.2
1.1
4
86
0.1
0.5
1..7
5
84
<0.1
0.3
0.7
6
81
<0.1
6.3
1.4
7
84
0.1
0.3
1.1.
8
83
<0.1
0.2
1.0
9
59
0.2
0.7
1.3
10
83
0.3
0.9
1.9
13
33
<0.1
0.2
0.4
14
23
0.2
0.4
0.7
15
23
0.1
0.3
0.5
16
23
0.2
0.3
0.6
17
18
0.1
0.6
0.9
18
15
<0.1
0.2
0.5
-
Ammonia Nitrogen (mg/L)
ak
sam
Ike#. Imm
median
high
1
83
<0.02
0.03
0.37
2
83
<0.02
0.02
0.58
4
79
<0.02
0.06
0.82
5
83
<0.02
0.02
0.27
6
- 80
<0.02
0.03
0.72
7.
83
<0.02
0.03
0.34
8
82
<0.02
0.03
0.12
9
59
<0.02
0.02
0.08
10
82
<0.02
0:14
0.42
13
-33
<0.02
0.09
0.20
14
23
0.03
0.07
0.16
15
23
<0.02
0:03
0.17
16
23
<0.02
0.04
0.29
17
18
-0.04
0.07
0.13
18
15
0.02
0.06
0.25
< = below detection limits

Appendix F: Trends for each site with flow, time, and season
Site
increases as flow increases
decreases as flow increases
1
pH, alk, NH3
2
turb, tss, cu, NO3
pH, alk, cond
4
turb, tss, cu, pb, M, PO4, NH3, NO3
pH
5
pH, alk, cond, NH3
6
NO3
pH, alk, cond
7
turb, tss, cu, pb, m, NO3
pH, cond, PO4
8
tss
pH, alk
9
NO3
alk
10
1 cond PO
Site
increasing over time
decreasing over time
1
pH, alk, cond
2
cond, cu, PO4
M
4
cond, cu, PO4, NO3
5
pH, cu
M
6
pH, alk, cond, PO4
tss, M
7
pH
cond, M, PO4 .
8
pH, alk, cond, PO4
tss, M
9
alk, NO3
10
p1l, cond, cu, PO4, NO
tss
alk=alkalinity, turb=turbidity, tss--total suspended solids, cond=conductivity, cu=copper, pb=lead, zn=zinc,
PO4 orthophosphate, NH3 ammonia -nitrogen, NO3 nitrate/nitrite-nitrogen
Number of sites showing seasonal trends
parameter
hi winter
hi spring
hi summer
hi fall
to winter
to spring
to summer
to fall
pH
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
alkalinity
0
0
2
0
2
0
0
0
urbidity
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
otal susp sol
0
0
2
0
1
0
0
1
-onductivity
0
0
3
3
3
3
0
0
-opper
0
0
1
0:
1
0
0
0
lead
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
inc
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
rtho hos.
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
mmonia-N
1
1
.0
0
0
0
1
1
nitrate-N
2
0
2
0
0
0
0
4