NC0061123_Permit (Issuance)_20171001

Water Resources
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Mr. Lee Reading
The Mountain Retreat
and Conference Center
P.O. Box 1299
Highlands, N.C. 28741-1299
ROY COOPER
Governor
MICHAEL S. REGAN
Secretaiv
S. JAY ZIMMERMAN
Director
October 1, 2017
Subject: Issuance of NPDES Permit NC0061123
The Mountain Retreat and Conference Center
WWTP/Class I
Macon County
Dear Mr. Reading:
Division personnel have reviewed and approved your application for renewal of the subject permit. Accordingly,
we are forwarding the attached NPDES discharge permit. This permit is issued pursuant to the requirements of North
Carolina General Statute 143-215.1 and the Memorandum of Agreement between North Carolina and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency dated October 15, 2007 (or as subsequently amended).
The final permit includes the following significant changes from the existing permit:
➢ Section A. (5.) has been updated to reflect current language regarding electronic submission of effluent
data. Federal regulations require electronic submittal of all discharge monitoring reports (DMRs).
➢ Regulatory citations have been added.
➢ Updated outfall map has been included.
If any parts, measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this permit are unacceptable to you,
you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon written request within thirty (30) days following receipt of this letter.
This request must be in the form of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes,
and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings (6714 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-6714).
Unless such demand is made, this decision shall be final and binding.
Please note that this permit is not transferable except after notice to the Division. The Division may require
modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit. This permit does not affect the legal requirements to obtain any
other Federal, State, or Local governmental permit that may be required. If you have any questions concerning this permit,
please contact Anjali B. Orlando at telephone number [phone] or [e-mail].
cc: Central Files
Asheville Regional Office
NPDES Unit
r
S. Jay Zimmerman, P.G.
Director, Division of Water Resources
State of North Carolina I Environmental Quality I Water Resources
1617 Mail Service Center I Raleigh, NC 27699-1617
919 807 6300 919-807-6389 FAX
hops://deq.nc.gov/abouddivisions/water-resources/water-resources-permits/wastewater-branch/npdes-wastewater-permits

NPDES Permit NC0061123
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliance with the provision of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1, other lawful standards and
regulations promulgated and adopted by the North Carolina Environmental Management Commission, and the
Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, the
The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc.
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at the
The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center VVWTP
3872 Dillard Road
Highlands
Macon County
to receiving waters designated as Abes Creek of the Savannah Broad River Basin in accordance with effluent
limitations, monitoring requirements, and other conditions set forth in Parts I, II, III and IV hereof.
This permit shall become effective November 1, 2017.
This peiiiiit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on August 31, 2022.
Signed this day October 1, 2017.
4101,
I 7
S>`T:: Zimmerman, P.G.
Director, Division of Water Resources
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission
Page 1 of 7

NPDES Permit NC0061123
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
All previous NPDES Permits issued to this facility, whether for operation or discharge are hereby revoked. As of
this permit issuance, any previously issued permit bearing this number is no longer effective. Therefore, the
exclusive authority to operate and discharge from this facility arises under the permit conditions, requirements,
terms, and provisions included herein.
The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue to operate an existing 0.006 MGD wastewater treatment facility with the following components:
• Multiple septic tanks
• Surface sand filters
• Tablet chlorine disinfection
• Dechlorination equipment
This facility is located at The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center (3872 Dillard Road, near Highlands) in
Macon County.
2. Discharge from said treatment works via outfall 001 into Abes Creek (stream segment 03-10-2-2-2), a
waterbody currently classified C-Trout ORW waters in hydrologic unit [HUC: 03060102] of the Savannah
River Basin (Subbasin 03-13-01) at the location specified on the attached map.
Page 2 of 7

NPDES Permit NC0061123
Part I.
A. (1.) EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
[15 NCAC 02B .0400 et seq., 02B .0500 et seq.]
During the period beginning on the effective date of this permit and lasting until expiration, the Permittee is authorized to
discharge from outfall 001. Such discharges shall be limited, monitored, and reportedl by the Permittee as specified below:
PARAMETER
{PCS Code]
LIMITS
MONITORING REQUIREMENTS1
Monthly Average
Daily Maximum
Measurement
Frequency
Sample Type
Sample
Location'
Flow3
[50050]
0.006 MGD
Weekly
Instantaneous
Influent or
Effluent
BOD, 5-day (20°C)
[00310]
30.0 mg/L
45.0 mg/L
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
Total Suspended Solids
[00530]
30.0 mg/L
45.0 mg/L
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
NH3 as N
[00610]
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
Dissolved Oxygen
[00300]
Daily average > 6.0 mg/L
Weekly
Grab
Effluent,
Dissolved Oxygen
[00300]
Weekly
Grab
U & D
Fecal Coliform (geometric mean)
[31616]
200/100 mL
400/100 mL
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
Total Residual Chlorine4 [50060]
17 ug/L
2/Week
Grab
Effluent
Temperature °C [00010]
2/Week
Grab
Effluent
Temperature °C [00010]
Weekly
Grab
U & D
MBAS [38260]
Monthly
Grab
Effluent
Chronic Toxicity5 [TGP3B]
Quarterly
Grab
Effluent
pH [00400] _
> 6.0 and < 9.0 standard units
Weekly
Grab
Effluent
Footnotes:
1. The permittee shall submit discharge monitoring reports electronically using the Division's eDMR system
[see A. (5)].
2. U: at least 50 feet upstream from the outfall. D: at least 100 feet downstream from the outfall.
3. See A. (2).
4. See A. (3).
5. Chronic Toxicity (Ceriodaphnia) P/F at 90% with testing in February, May, August, and November [see A.
(4)].
Conditions:
• All samples much be collected from a typical discharge event.
• There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.
Page 3 of 7

NPDES Permit NC0061123
A. (2.) EXPANSION / MODIFICATION CONDITION
In the event that additional facilities at this site discharge to the Little Tennessee River Basin are constructed, the
0.006 MGD discharge into the Savannah River shall either be eliminated or redirected to the Little Tennessee
River Basin.
A. (3.) DECHLORINATION CONDITION
If chlorine disinfection is used, the permit holder shall employ dechlorination facilities.
A. (4.) CHRONIC TOXICITY PASS/FAIL MONITORING (QUARTERLY)
[15A NCAC 02B .0500 et seq.]
The permittee shall conduct quarterly chronic toxicity tests using test procedures outlined in the "North Carolina
Ceriodaphnia Chronic Effluent Bioassay Procedure," Revised December 2010, or subsequent versions.
The effluent concentration defined as treatment two in the procedure document is 90%. The testing shall be
performed as a Ceriodaphnia dubia 7-day pass/fail test. The tests will be performed during the months of March,
June, September and December. These months signify the first month of each three month toxicity testing
quarter assigned to the facility. Effluent sampling for this testing must be obtained during representative effluent
discharge and shall be performed at the NPDES permitted final effluent discharge below all treatment processes.
All toxicity testing results required as part of this permit condition will be entered on the Effluent Discharge
Monitoring Form (MR-1) for the month in which it was performed, using the parameter code TGP3B.
Additionally, DWR Form AT-1 (original) is to be sent to the following address:
Attention: North Carolina Division of Water Resources
Environmental Sciences Section
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1621
Completed Aquatic Toxicity Test Forms shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences Section no later than 30
days after the end of the reporting period for which the report is made.
Test data shall be complete and accurate and include all supporting chemical/physical measurements performed in
association with the toxicity tests, as well as all dose/response data. Total residual chlorine of the effluent toxicity
sample must be measured and reported if chlorine is employed for disinfection of the waste stream.
Should there be no discharge of flow from the facility during a month in which toxicity monitoring is required,
the permittee will complete the information located at the top of the aquatic toxicity (AT) test foiiii indicating the
facility name, permit number, pipe number, county, and the month/year of the report with the notation of "No
Flow" in the comment area of the form. The report shall be submitted to the Environmental Sciences Section at
the address cited above.
Should the permittee fail to monitor during a month in which toxicity monitoring is required, then monthly
monitoring will begin immediately. Upon submission of a valid test, this monthly test requirement will revert to
quarterly in the months specified above.
Page 4 of 7

NPDES Permit NC0061123
Should any test data from this monitoring requirement or tests performed by the North Carolina Division of Water
Resources indicate potential impacts to the receiving stream, this permit may be re -opened and modified to
include alternate monitoring requirements or limits.
If the Permittee monitors any pollutant more frequently then required by this permit, the results of such
monitoring shall be included in the calculation & reporting of the data submitted on the DMR & all AT Forms
submitted.
NOTE: Failure to achieve test conditions as specified in the cited document, such as minimum control organism
survival, minimum control organism reproduction, and appropriate environmental controls, shall constitute an
invalid test and will require immediate follow-up testing to be completed no later than the last day of the month
following the month of the initial monitoring.
A. (5.) ELECTRONIC REPORTING OF DISCHARGE MONITORING REPORTS
[NCGS 143-215.1 (b)]
Federal regulations require electronic submittal of all discharge monitoring reports (DMRs) and program reports.
The final NPDES Electronic Reporting Rule was adopted and became effective on December 21, 2015.
NOTE: This special condition supplements or supersedes the following sections within Part II of this peiiuit
(Standard Conditions for NPDES Permits):
• Section B. (11.)
• Section D. (2.)
• Section D. (6.)
• Section E. (5.)
Signatory Requirements
Reporting
Records Retention
Monitoring Reports
1. Reporting Requirements [Supersedes Section D. (2.) and Section E. (5.) (a)]
The permittee shall report discharge monitoring data electronically using the NC DWR's Electronic
Discharge Monitoring Report (eDMR) internet application.
Monitoring results obtained during the previous month(s) shall be summarized for each month and submitted
electronically using eDMR. The eDMR system allows permitted facilities to enter monitoring data and
submit DMRs electronically using the internet. Until such time that the state's eDMR application is
compliant with EPA's Cross -Media Electronic Reporting Regulation (CROMERR), permittees will be
required to submit all discharge monitoring data to the state electronically using eDMR and will be required
to complete the eDMR submission by printing, signing, and submitting one signed original and a copy of the
computer printed eDMR to the following address:
NC DENR / Division of Water Resources / Water Quality Permitting Section
ATTENTION: Central Files
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617
If a permittee is unable to use the eDMR system due to a demonstrated hardship or due to the facility being
physically located in an area where less than 10 percent of the households have broadband access, then a
temporary waiver from the NPDES electronic reporting requirements may be granted and discharge
monitoring data may be submitted on paper DMR forms (MR 1, 1.1, 2, 3) or alternative forms approved by
the Director. Duplicate signed copies shall be submitted to the mailing address above. See "How to Request
a Waiver from Electronic Reporting" section below.
Page 5 of 7

NPDES Permit NC0061123
Regardless of the submission method, the first DMR is due on the last day of the month following the
issuance of the permit or in the case of a new facility, on the last day of the month following the
commencement of discharge.
Starting on December 21, 2020, the permittee must electronically report the following compliance
monitoring data and reports, when applicable:
• Sewer Overflow/Bypass Event Reports;
• Pretreatment Program Annual Reports; and
• Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 316(b) Annual Reports.
The permittee may seek an electronic reporting waiver from the Division (see "How to Request a Waiver
from Electronic Reporting" section below).
2. Electronic Submissions
In accordance with 40 CFR 122.41(1)(9), the permittee must identify the initial recipient at the time of each
electronic submission.. The permittee should use the EPA's website resources to identify the initial recipient
for the electronic submission.
Initial recipient of electronic NPDES information from NPDES-regulated facilities means the entity (EPA or
the state authorized by EPA to implement the NPDES program) that is the designated entity for receiving
electronic NPDES data [see 40 CFR 127.2(b)].
EPA plans to establish a website that will also link to the appropriate electronic reporting tool for each type of
electronic submission and for each state. Instructions on how to access and use the appropriate electronic
reporting tool will be available as well. Information on EPA's NPDES Electronic Reporting Rule is found at:
http://www2.epa.gov/compliance/final-national-pollutant-discharge-elimination-system-npdes-electronic-
reporting-rule.
Electronic submissions must start by the dates listed in the "Reporting Requirements" section above.
3. How to Request a Waiver from Electronic Reporting
The permittee may seek a temporary electronic reporting waiver from the Division. To obtain an electronic
reporting waiver, a permittee must first submit an electronic reporting waiver request to the Division.
Requests for temporary electronic reporting waivers must be submitted in writing to the Division for written
approval at least sixty (60) days prior to the date the facility would be required under this permit to begin
submitting monitoring data and reports. The duration of a temporary waiver shall not exceed 5 years and
shall thereupon expire. At such time, monitoring data and reports shall be submitted electronically to the
Division unless the permittee re -applies for and is granted a new temporary electronic reporting waiver by the
Division. Approved electronic reporting waivers are not transferrable. Only permittees with an approved
reporting waiver request may submit monitoring data and reports on paper to the Division for the period that
the approved reporting waiver request is effective.
Information on eDMR and the application for a temporary electronic reporting waiver are found on the
following web page:
Page 6 of 7

NPDES Permit NC0061123
http://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/water-resources/edmr
4. Signatory Requirements [Supplements Section B. (11.) (b) and Supersedes Section B. (11.) (d)1
All eDMRs submitted to the permit issuing authority shall be signed by a person described in Part II, Section
B. (11.)(a) or by a duly authorized representative of that person as described in Part II, Section B. (11.)(b). A
person, and not a position, must be delegated signatory authority for eDMR reporting purposes.
For eDMR submissions, the person signing and submitting the DMR must obtain an eDMR user account and
login credentials to access the eDMR system. For more information on North Carolina's eDMR system,
registering for eDMR and obtaining an eDMR user account, please visit the following web page:
http://deq.nc.ov/about/divisions/water-resources/edmr
Certification. Any person submitting an electronic DMR using the state's eDMR system shall make the
following certification [40 CFR 122.22]. NO OTHER STATEMENTS OF CERTIFICATION WILL BE
ACCEPTED:
"I certify, under penalty of law, that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or
supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and
evaluate the information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or
those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the information submitted is, to the best of
my knowledge and belief true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant penalties for
submitting false information, including the possibility of fines and imprisonment for knowing violations."
5. Records Retention [Supplements Section D. (6.)]
The permittee shall retain records of all Discharge Monitoring Reports, including eDMR submissions. These
records or copies shall be maintained for a period of at least 3 years from the date of the report. This period may
be extended by request of the Director at any time [40 CFR 122.41].
Page7of7

NC0061123 — The Mountain Retreat and Learning
Center WWTP
Latitude: 35° 01' 54" N State Grid: Scaly Mountain
Longitude: 83° 15' 44" W Hydrologic Unit: 03060102
Receiving Stream: Abes Creek Basin: Savannah River Basin
Stream Class: C-Trout ORW Sub -Basin: 03-13-01
Facility
location
Map not to scale
Macon County

invoice / Affidavit
The Highlander
Post Office Box 249
Highlands, NC 28741
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
COUNTY OF MACON
AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION
Personally appeared before the undersigned, Brad Spaulding, who having been
duly sworn on oath that he is the Publisher of The Highlander, and the
following legal advertisement was published in The Highlander newspaper, and
Entered as second class mail in the Town of Highlands in said county and state;
and that he is authorized to make this affidavit and sworn statement; that the
notice or other legal advertisement, a true copy of which is attached hereto,
was published in The Highlander newspaper on the following dates:
PDES WASTEWATER PERM
".li 1.1C NOTICE NORTH CAROL
'8/17/2017
And that the said newspaper in which such notice, paper, document or legal
advertisement was published, was at the time of each and every such
publication, a newspaper meeting all the requirements and qualifications of
Section I-597 of the General Statues of North Carolina and was a qualified
newspaper within the meaning of the Section I-597 of the General Statues of
th Carolina.
ignature person ..ing affidavit
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 23rd day of August, 2017.
Nota 2ublic
My Commision Expires: .lit
Total Cost of Advertisement: $49.75
Filed With: NCDENR- DIV WATER RESOURCES
Address: 1617 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699
e t1sTAti,„
zv NOT AR y
MY
COMMISSION EXPIRES
*7 PUBLIC .ag
ionntimiloo
•
Public Notice
North Carolina Environmental
Management
Commission/NPDES Unit
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1617
Notice of Intent to Issue a
NPDES Wastewater Permit. The
North Carolina Environmental
Management Commission
proposes to issue a NPDES
wastewater discharge permit to
the person(s) listed below.
Written comments regarding the
proposed permit will be accepted
until 30 days after the publish
date of this notice. The Director
of the NC Division of Water
Resources (DWR) may hold a
public hearing should there be a
significant degree of public
interest. Please mail comments
and/or information requests to
DWR at the above address.
Interested persons may visit the
DWR at 512 N. Salisbury Street,
Raleigh, NC to review information
on file. Additional information on
NPDES permits and this notice
may be found on our website:
http://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/
water-resources/water-resou rces-
permits/wastewater-
branch/npdes-wastewater/publ ic-
notices,or by calling (919) 807-
6397. The Mountain Retreat and
Learning Center requested
renewal of permit NC0061123 for
their WWTP / Macon County.
Facility discharges to Abes
Creek/Savannah River Basin.
Currently dissolved oxygen, total
residual chlorine, and fecal
coliform are water quality limited
365021-8-17-NCDENR

Orlando, Anjali
From: Orlando, Anjali
Sent: Monday, September 18, 2017 2:42 PM
To: Willmer, Mikal
Cc: Heim, Tim; Weaver, Charles; John Hennessy ([e-mail])
Subject: RE: Mountain Retreat Renewal-NC0061123
Hello Mikal,
Thank you for the update about this facility, and I have made note on the fact sheet of
their interest in switching to ammonia limits rather that chronic toxicity testing.
As Charles mentioned, it would seem to be a better choice to keep the permit
with the chronic toxicity testing rather than switch.
To date, I have not received any comments from the facility about the
draft permit. The comment period ended on September 16, 2017.
After October 1, I will proceed to issuance with the current version
unless I receive any other comments or change requests.
Thanks and have a nice day,
Anjali
From: Willmer, Mikal
Sent: Thursday, September 14, 2017 6:45 AM
To: Orlando, Anjali <[e-mail]>
Cc: Heim, Tim <[e-mail]>
Subject: Mountain Retreat Renewal-NC0061123
Good Morning Anjali,
I went to Mountain Retreat and met with the director of the facility this week. We discussed what requesting a switch to
ammonia limits would entail and I advised them to see if USGS still assessed the receiving stream at a 7Q10 of 0 before
deciding whether or not to request a switch from toxicity testing to ammonia. I've attached the inspection report and
staff report for the facility. Mr. Velker, who acts in an advisory capacity for the facility, informed me he had started
talking with the USGS and they are just waiting to hear back. I know they made the request along with their application
this year, but I do not know if they've made comments on the draft permit. I suggested they consider analyzing
additional samples if they continue to have chronic toxicity issues. As of right now, I do not see any changes that need to
be made to the permit. They did say they should have continuous flow year around now, so they may also help with the
chronic toxicity issues they've experienced in the past.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Our phone lines are still down, but I can be reached by email.
Regards,
Mikal Willmer
Environmental Specialist -Asheville Regional Office
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
NCDEQ-Division of Water Resources
1

Orlando, Anjali
From: Willmer, Mikal
Sent: Thursday, September 14, 2017 6:45 AM
To: Orlando, Anjali
Cc: Heim, Tim
Subject: Mountain Retreat Renewal-NC0061123
Attachments: NC0061123 Staff Report Renewal 2017.docx.pdf; NC0061123.CEI.091217.pdf
Good Morning Anjali,
I went to Mountain Retreat and met with the director of the facility this week. We discussed what requesting a switch to
ammonia limits would entail and I advised them to see if USGS still assessed the receiving stream at a 7Q10 of 0 before
deciding whether or not to request a switch from toxicity testing to ammonia. I've attached the inspection report and
staff report for the facility. Mr. Velker, who acts in an advisory capacity for the facility, informed me he had started
talking with the USGS and they are just waiting to hear back. I know they made the request along with their application
this year, but I do not know if they've made comments on the draft permit. I suggested they consider analyzing
additional samples if they continue to have chronic toxicity issues. As of right now, I do not see any changes that need to
be made to the permit. They did say they should have continuous flow year around now, so they may also help with the
chronic toxicity issues they've experienced in the past.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Our phone lines are still down, but I can be reached by email.
Regards,
Mikal Willmer
Environmental Specialist -Asheville Regional Office
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
NCDEQ-Division of Water Resources
Office: 828-296-4686
Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]
2090 US Hwy. 70
Swannanoa, NC 28778
ra
Nothing Compares...
Email correspondence to and from this address is subject to the
North Carolina Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties.
1

Orlando, Anjali
From: Weaver, Charles
Sent: Thursday, September 7, 2017 10:27 AM
To: Willmer, Mikal
Cc: Orlando, Anjali; Hennessy, John
Subject: RE: Permit Renewal- NC0061123
Attachments: 61123 NH3 2012-2017.xls; 61123 1984-1992.pdf
Mikal — yes, permittees can request the change you're proposing.
However, in this particular case, it would not be a wise choice. The likely effluent limits would be 1.0 mg/L summer and
13.7 mg/L winter. It's unlikely the facility could comply with those limits. Violations of NH3 limits could produce more
frequent and expensive enforcement actions against the permittee.
The original wasteload allocations from 1984 and 1992 are attached. They list the proposed NH3 limits on page
3. While it has been many years since those limits were calculated, nothing about the facility or receiving stream
classification has changed.
I've also attached NH3 data from 2012-2017 for the facility.
Let Anjali know if there are any other permit changes to consider.
CHW
From: Willmer, Mikal
Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2017 12:26 PM
To: Weaver, Charles <[e-mail]>
Subject: Permit Renewal- NC0061123
I have a quick question. One of my permittees would like to switch from a quarterly chronic toxicity requirement to an
ammonia limit. Is this something they can do? There permit is currently up for renewal. I know there is a memorandum
from 1999 that clarifies Water Quality's position on WET limits in NPDES Permits. The memo says minor facilities may be
given an option of a lower ammonia limit or WET testing.
Thanks,
Mikal Willmer
Environmental Specialist -Asheville Regional Office
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
NCDEQ-Division of Water Resources
Office: 828-296-4686
Fax: [phone]
!4
2090 US Hwy. 70
Swannanoa, NC 28778
1

FACT SHEET FOR EXPEDITED PERMIT RENEWALS
This form must be completed by Permit Writers for all expedited permits which do not
require full Fact Sheets. Expedited permits are generally simple 100% domestics (e.g.,
schools, mobile home parks, etc) that can be administratively renewed with minor
changes, but can include facilities with more complex issues (Special Conditions, 303(d)
listed water, toxicity testing, instream monitoring, compliance concerns).
Basic Information for Expedited Permit Renewals
Permit Writer/Date
Anjali Orlando - 05/03/2017
Permit Number
NC0061123
Facility Name
The Mountain Retreat and Learning
Center WWTP
Basin Name/Sub-basin number
Savannah / 03-13-01
Receiving Stream
Abes Creek
Stream Classification in Permit
C-Trout ORW
Does permit need Daily Maximum NH3
limits?
Yes
Does permit need TRC limits/language?
No
Does permit have toxicity testing?
Yes
Does permit have Special Conditions?
Yes. Expansion/Modification;
Dechlorination; Chronic Toxicity
Does permit have instream monitoring?
Yes
Is the stream impaired (on 303(d) list)?
No
Any obvious compliance concerns?
No
Any permit mods since last permit?
Yes. Minor mod to reduce effluent
temperature monitoring to 2/Week
New expiration date
8/31/2022
Comments on Draft Permit?
Changes to Permit?
• eDMR Section A.(3.) has been
added to require electronic
submission of effluent data.
• Regulatory citations added
• Updated outfall map

DocuSi n Envelo a ID: CSEB72AE-45B5-47BE-BCBB-039CE3C597E3
State of North Carolina
Division of Water Resources
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Environmental Staff Report
Quality
To: ® NPDES Unit n Non -Discharge Unit Application No.: NC0061123
Attn: Anjali Orlando Facility name: Mountain Retreat and Learning Center
From: Mikal Wffimer
Asheville Regional Office
Note: This form has been adapted from the non -discharge facility staff report to document the review of both non -
discharge and NPDES permit applications and/or renewals. Please complete all sections as they are applicable.
I. GENERAL AND SITE VISIT INFORMATION
1. Was a site visit conducted? ® Yes or ❑ No
a. Date of site visit: 9/12/2017
b. Site visit conducted by: Mikal Willmer & Tim Fox
c. Inspection report attached? ® Yes or ❑ No
d. Person contacted: Ted Wisniewski and their contact information: (828) 526 - 5838 ext.
e. Driving directions: Head west on I-40 to Exit 27 for US-74. Take exit 81 for 23S
(Dillsboro/Franldin/Atlanta). Stay on US 23S for approximately 18 miles. Take the exit for US-64 East
towards Highlands. Turn right onto Dillard Rd. Take a left onto Little Scaly Mountain Rd and follow signs for
the Mountain Office.
2. Discharge Point(s):
Latitude:35° 01'54" Longitude:83°15'44"
Latitude: Longitude:
3. Receiving stream or affected surface waters: Abe's Creek
Classification: C,Tr, ORW
River Basin and Subbasin No. Savannah, 0306010201 -Tugaloo
Describe receiving stream features and pertinent downstream uses: Flows into West Overflow Creek, also
classified C, Tr, ORW.
II. PROPOSED FACILITIES: NEW APPLICATIONS
1. Facility Classification: (Please attach completed rating sheet to be attached to issued permit)
Proposed flow:
Current permitted flow:
2. Are the new treatment facilities adequate for the type of waste and disposal system? ❑ Yes or ❑ No
If no, explain:
3. Are site conditions (soils, depth to water table, etc) consistent with the submitted reports? ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A
If no, please explain:
4. Do the plans and site map represent the actual site (property lines, wells, etc.)? 0 Yes 0 No 0 N/A
If no, please explain:
FORM: WQROSSR 04-14 Page 1 of 6

DocuSign Envelope ID: C5EB72AE-45B5-47BE-BCBB-039CE3C597E3
5. Is the proposed residuals management plan adequate? ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A
If no, please explain:
6. Are the proposed application rates (e.g., hydraulic, nutrient) acceptable? ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A
If no, please explain:
7. Are there any setback conflicts for proposed treatment, storage and disposal sites? ❑ Yes or ❑ No
If yes, attach a map showing conflict areas.
8. Is the proposed or existing groundwater monitoring program adequate? 0 Yes ❑ No 0 N/A
If no, explain and recommend any changes to the groundwater monitoring program:
9. For residuals, will seasonal or other restrictions be required? ❑ Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A
If yes, attach list of sites with restrictions (Certification B)
Describe the residuals handling and utilization scheme:
10. Possible toxic impacts to surface waters:
11. Pretreatment Program (POTWs only):
III. EXISTING FACILITIES: MODIFICATION AND RENEWAL APPLICATIONS
1. Are there appropriately certified Operators in Charge (ORCs) for the facility? ® Yes ❑ No ❑ N/A
ORC: Brandon Buchanan Certificate #:1000794 Backup ORC: Dale Wike Certificate #:996012
2. Are the design, maintenance and operation of the treatment facilities adequate for the type of waste and disposal
system? ® Yes or 0 No
If no, please explain: If the facility requests a switch to ammonia limits, additional treatment may be required.
Description of existing facilities: Multiple septic tanks, two surface sand filters, chlorine and dechlor with cascade
aeration
Proposed flow:
Current permitted flow:0.006 MGD
Explain anything observed during the site visit that needs to be addressed by the permit, or that may be important
for the permit writer to know (i.e., equipment condition, function, maintenance, a change in facility ownership,
etc.) The permittee is planning to contact the USGS to have the 7010 flow revaluated for Abes Creek. If 7010 is
reassessed above zero, permittee may request to switch to NH1 limits.
3. Are the site conditions (e.g., soils, topography, depth to water table, etc) maintained appropriately and adequately
assimilating the waste? ❑ Yes or ❑ No NA
If no, please explain:
4. Has the site changed in any way that may affect the permit (e.g., drainage added, new wells inside the compliance
boundary, new development, etc.)? 0 Yes or ® No
If yes, please explain: The Mountain Retreat may add an additional building, but does not believe this will
significantly increase flow.
5. Is the residuals management plan adequate? ® Yes or ❑ No
If no, please explain: septage is hauled to local municipal facilities as needed.
6. Are the existing application rates (e.g., hydraulic, nutrient) still acceptable? 0 Yes or 0 No
If no, please explain:
7. Is the existing groundwater monitoring program adequate? 0 Yes 0 No ®N/A
If no, explain and recommend any changes to the groundwater monitoring program:
8. Are there any setback conflicts for existing treatment, storage and disposal sites? 0 Yes or ® No
If yes, attach a map showing conflict areas.
9. Is the description of the facilities as written in the existing permit correct? ® Yes or ❑ No
If no, please explain:
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DocuSign Envelope ID: C5EB72AE-4565-47BE-BCBB-039CE3C597E3
10. Were monitoring wells properly constructed and located? ❑ Yes ❑ No ® N/A
Milo, please explain:
FORM: WQROSSR 04-14 Page 3 of 6

DocuSign Envelope ID: C5EB72AE-45B5-47BE-BCBB-039CE3C597E3
11. Are the monitoring well coordinates correct in BIMS? ❑ Yes ❑ No ® N/A
If no, please complete the following (expand table if necessary):
Monitoring Well
Latitude
Longitude
O
, „
0
, „
O
, „
O
-
, „
O ,
„
0 ,
-
„
O ,
,/
0 ,
„
O ,
,/
0 ,
„
12. Has a review of all self -monitoring data been conducted (e.g., DMR, NDMR, NDAR, GW)? ® Yes or ❑ No
Please summarize any fmdings resulting from this review: One flow limit violation in June 2017. Facility staff
report they maintain continuous flow through the system, however, only sampling and reporting flow during
summer months.
Provide input to help the permit writer evaluate any requests for reduced monitoring, if applicable.
13. Are there any permit changes needed in order to address ongoing BIMS violations? ❑ Yes or ® No
If yes, please explain:
14. Check all that apply:
❑ No compliance issues ❑ Current enforcement action(s) ❑ Currently under JOC
® Notice(s) of violation 0 Currently under SOC 0 Currently under moratorium
Please explain and attach any documents that may help clarify answer/comments (i.e., NOV, NOD, etc.)
If the facility has had compliance problems during the permit cycle, please explain the status. Has the RO been
working with the Permittee? Is a solution underway or in place? Facility has had past issues meeting the Chronic
Toxicity requirement. Permittee may request a switch to ammonia limits. Advised permittee NHS limits may be
difficult to meet at current 7Q 10 flow limits and may require additional treatment. If the facility continues to have
toxicity issues, it may be beneficial to conduct additional sampling.
Have all compliance dates/conditions in the existing permit been satisfied? 0 Yes ❑ No ® N/A
If no, please explain:
15. Are there any issues related to compliance/enforcement that should be resolved before issuing this permit?
❑ Yes ®No❑N/A
If yes, please explain:
16. Possible toxic impacts to surface waters:
17. Pretreatment Program (POTWs only):
FORM: WQROSSR 04-14 Page 4 of 6

DocuSign Envelope ID: C5EB72AE-45B5-47BE-BCBB-039CE3C597E3
IV. REGIONAL OFFICE RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Do you foresee any problems with issuance/renewal of this permit? ❑ Yes or ® No
If yes, please explain:
2. List any items that you would like the NPDES Unit or Non -Discharge Unit Central Office to obtain through an
additional information request.
Item
Reason
3. List specific permit conditions recommended to be removed from the permit when issued:
Condition
Reason
4. List specific special conditions or compliance schedules recommended to be included in the permit when issued:
Condition
Reason
5. Recommendation: ❑ Hold, pending receipt and review of additional information by regional office
❑ Hold, pending review of draft permit by regional office
❑ Issue upon receipt of needed additional information
® Issue
❑ Deny (Please state reasons: ) 1..
' by:
134
6. Signature of report preparers e,. [/�
Signature of regional supervisor:
Date: 7E617A38285848C...
FORM: WQROSSR 04-14
9/13/2017
9/13/2017
Page 5 of 6

DocuSign Envelope ID: C5EB72AE-45B5-47BE-BCBB-039CE3C597E3
V. ADDITIONAL REGIONAL STAFF REVIEW ITEMS
See attached compliance evaluation inspection.
FORM: WQROSSR 04-14 Page 6 of 6

DocuSign Envelope ID: D30FD396-2DF9-4C84-A21 E-A20272E573F2
United States Environmental Protection Agency
EPA Washington, D.C. 20460
Water Compliance Inspection Report
Form Approved.
OMB No. 2040-0057
Approval expires 8-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding (i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 IN I 2 Li 3 I NC0061123 111 12 I 17/09/12 117 18 LI 19 Li 201
21IIII
I I I
I
I III m 1 1 I I I I I
I I I
I I I 1 I I 1 I I III I I I i i r
Inspection Work Days Facility Self -Monitoring Evaluation Rating B1 QA Reserved
67 I I 70 Li 711 I 72 LI 73 11 174 75j I I I 1I 1 180
Section B: Facility Data
Name and Location of Facility Inspected (For Industrial Users discharging to POTW, also include
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center VW TP
3872 Dillard Rd
Highlands NC 28741
Entry Time/Date
10:15AM 17/09/12
Permit Effective Date
12/09/01
Exit Time/Date
11:30AM 17/09/12
Permit Expiration Date
17/08/31
Name(s) of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s)
///
Brandon Keith Buchanan/ORC/828-586-5588/
Other Facility Data
Name, Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Matthew Velker,PO Box 1299 Highlands NC 287411299//828-526-5838/8285264505
Yes
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit Flow Measurement Operations & Maintenance Facility Site Review
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s) and Signature(s)
Timothy R Fox
Mikal Willmer
of Inspector(s) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
- DocuSigned-�by: ARO WQ//828-296-4500/
� / ARO WQ//828-296-4686/ 9/13/2017
OBABAEBEC2434B4...
Signature of Managemep,fy.
Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
cThr )\ 9/13/2017
EPA Form 3560-3 (Rev 9-94) Previous editions are obsolete.
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DocuSign Envelope ID: D30FD396-2DF9-4C84-A21 E-A20272E573F2
NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type
31 NC0061123 11 121 17/09/12 117 18 141
(Cont.)
1
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Inspectors Mikal Willmer and Tim Fox with the Asheville Regional Office conducted a Compliance
Evaluation Inspection of the WWTP that serves the Mountain Retreat and Learning Center on
September 12, 2017. This inspection was conducted as part of the permit renewal process and to
discuss options for a potential permit modification. Ted Wsniewski,with the Mountain Retreat, was
present and assisted in the inspection.
Overall it appeared the plant is being well maintained. The facility is located a quarter of a mile down a
gravel access road on the property. Public access is limited because of its location; however, the
Mountain Retreat may wish to consider installing a fence around the surface sand filters. This would
prevent public access to the plant and would help prevent wildlife from disturbing the sand filters and
distribution lines.
Influent flow is used for permit reporting. Please clarify if the facility has a continuous discharge. If so,
weekly instantaneous flow readings and required monitoring parameters are to be sampled and
recorded on the monthly DMRs.
The permittee is considering requesting a switch to Ammonia limits in lieu of Chronic Toxicity Testing.
The options and speculative limits for such a switch were discussed during the inspection. The WWTP
discharges into Abes Creek, a Class C, Tr, ORW. The Summer 7Q10 for Abes Creek is currently
listed as 0. Suggested the Permittee contact the USGS for a re-evaluation of 7Q10 flow before
requesting a permit modification. At current 7Q10 flows, speculative summer ammonia limits would be
1 mg/L and 13 mg/L during the winter. The addition of ammonia limits would require more frequent
monitoring than chronic toxicity and may require additional treatment to meet limits consistently.
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DocuSign Envelope ID: D30FD396-2DF9-4C84-A21E-A20272E573F2
Permit: NC0061123
Inspection Date: 09/12/2017
Owner - Facility: The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center VWV1
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Operations & Maintenance
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping?
Does the facility analyze process control parameters, for ex: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable
Solids, pH, DO, Sludge Judge, and other that are applicable?
Yes No NA NE
• ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: This facility consists of multiple septic tanks and two surface sand filters. See summary for
additional details.
Permit
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new
application?
Is the facility as described in the permit?
# Are there any special conditions for the permit?
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public?
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection?
Yes No NA NE
• ❑ ❑ ❑
• ❑ ❑ ❑
• ❑ ❑ ❑
▪ ❑ ❑ ❑
• ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: The wwtp is located a 1/4 of a mile down an access road. The Mountain Retreat may wish
to install a fence around some of the treatment units to prevent potential public access. A
fence may also help prevent wildlife from disturbing the sand filter and distribution lines.
Sand Filters (Low rate)
(If pumps are used) Is an audible and visible alarm Present and operational?
Is the distribution box level and watertight?
Is sand filter free of ponding?
Is the sand filter effluent re -circulated at a valid ratio?
# Is the sand filter surface free of algae or excessive vegetation?
# Is the sand filter effluent re -circulated at a valid ratio? (Approximately 3 to 1)
Yes No NA NE
• ❑ ❑ ❑
IN ❑ ❑ ❑
• ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: Two surface sand filters. Upper sand filter was not being used during the site visit. Flow was
directed to lower sand filter. Maintenance manager recently raked both sand filters.
Disinfection -Tablet
Are tablet chlorinators operational?
Are the tablets the proper size and type?
Number of tubes in use?
Is the level of chlorine residual acceptable?
Is the contact chamber free of growth, or sludge buildup?
Is there chlorine residual prior to de -chlorination?
Comment: Staff are currently using Norweco tablets supplied by Environmental Inc.
Yes No NA NE
• ❑ ❑ ❑
II 0 El El
❑ ❑ ❑ II
III ❑ ❑ ❑
❑ ❑ ❑ •
Page# 3

DocuSign Envelope ID: D30FD396-2DF9-4C84-A21 E-A20272E573F2
Permit: NC0061123
Inspection Date: 09/12/2017
Owner - Facility: The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center WW1
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
De -chlorination
Type of system ?
Is the feed ratio proportional to chlorine amount (1 to 1)?
Is storage appropriate for cylinders?
# Is de -chlorination substance stored away from chlorine containers?
Comment:
Are the tablets the proper size and type?
Are tablet de -chlorinators operational?
Number of tubes in use?
Comment: Maintenance staff monitor tablets during routine visits throughout the week.
Yes No NA NE
Tablet
❑ ❑ • ❑
❑ ❑• ❑
El El III El
• ❑ ❑ ❑
2
Page# 4