NC0061123_Permit Issuance_20021213

NPDES DOCYNENT SCANNING COVER SHEET
NPDES Permit:
NC0061123
The Mountain Retreat WWTP
Document Type:(Permit
Issuance
Wasteload Allocation
Authorization to Construct (AtC)
Permit Modification
Complete File - Historical
Engineering Alternatives (EAA)
Correspondence
Owner Name Change
Technical Correction
Instream Assessment (67b)
Speculative Limits
Environmental Assessment (EA)
Document Date:
December 13, 2002
This document is prizited on reuse paper - ignore any
content on the reverse Bide

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross, Jr., Secretary
Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director
December 13, 2002
Mr. Ian R. Denham
The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 1299
Highlands, North Carolina 28741
Dear Mr. Denham:
46647:91r:FA
NCDENR
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Subject: Issuance of NPDES Permit NC0061123
The Mountain Retreat & Learning WWTP
Macon County
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 May 9, 1994 (or as
subsequently amended).
The Division is currently in the process of implementing a Water Quality Standard for Total Residual
Chlorine (TRC) and expects to introduce permit limits statewide in April 2003. Although TRC is not
currently limited in this permit, the Division recommends that you prepare a budget and schedule
construction of facility upgrades to restrict the discharge of TRC (or explore alternative methods of
disinfection). Future renewals of this permit will include a TRC limit of between 17 µg/L and 28 µg/L.
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 other permits which may be required by the Division of Water Quality or
permits required by the Division of Land Resources, the Coastal Area Management Act or any other
Federal or Local governmental permit that may be required.
If you have any questions concerning this permit, please contact Christie Jackson at telephone
number [phone], extension 538.
Sincerely,
Original Signed By
David A. Goodrich
Alan W. Klimek, P.E.
cc: Central Files
Asheville Regional Office/Water Quality Section
NPDES Unit A
1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer VISIT US ON THE INTERNET @ http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/NPDES

Permit NC0061123
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIIVIINATION 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 Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc.
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at the
The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc. WWTP
3872 Dillard Road
southwest of Highlands
Macon County
to receiving waters designated as Abes Creek in the Savannah 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 January 1, 2003.
This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on August 31, 2007.
Signed this day December 13, 2002.
Original Signed By
David A. Goodrich
Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission

Permit NC0061 123
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc. is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue to operate an existing 0.006 MGD wastewater treatment system with
the following components:
• Multiple septic tanks
• Surface sand filters
The facility is located southwest of Highlands at The Mountain Retreat &
Learning Center, Inc. WWTP at 3872 Dillard Road in Macon County.
2. Discharge from said treatment works at the location specified on the attached
map into Abes Creek, classified C-Trout with an additional management strategy
to protect downstream ORW waters in the Savannah River Basin.

Latitude: 35°01'54"
Longitude: 83° 15'44"
Quad # G5SE
Receiving Stream: Abes Creek
Stream Class: C-Tr-ORW
Subbasin: 031302
NC0061123-Mountain Retreat & Learning Ctr_
Macon County

Permit NC0061123
A. (1.) EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS - FINAL
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 and monitored by the Permittee as specified below:
A 'Eke P
l MI
- Mpi- ItOR NG REQUIREMENTS
•
Sample L.Qcafioti
. �..
.r-x
, .r . . -5 4 . I +l. . ... , .- ♦ ..,. ,......
Monthly
- e. v 1�..age'. -
Wes_ i1
_ A9.441,: s..r
.. '
01 ..-�
. �ure' ent Y
. .,....S.` .. q i ,F ..
pro Type
.1�' ..,:,,
Flow2
0.006 MGD
Weekly
Instantaneous
Influent or Effluent
BOD, 5-day (20°C)
30.0 mg/L
45.0 mg/L
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
Total Suspended Residue
30.0 mg/L
45.0 mg/L
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
NH3 as N
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
Dissolved 0xygen3
Weekly
Grab
Effluent,
Upstream &
Downstream
Fecal Coliform (geometric mean)
200/100 ml
400/100 ml
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
Total Residual Chlorine
17 µg/L
2/Week
Grab
Effluent
Temperature (9C)
Daily
Grab
Effluent
Temperature (°C)
Weekly
Grab
Upstream &
Downstream
MBAS
Monthly
Grab
Effluent
Chronic Toxicity5
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
pH6
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
Footnotes:
1. Upstream = 50 feet from discharge point; Downstream = 100 feet from discharge point.
2. See special condition A.(2.).
3. The daily average dissolved oxygen concentration shall not be less than 6.0 mg/L.
4. See special condition A.(3.).
5. See special condition A.(4.). Chronic Toxicity (Ceriodaphnia) P/F at 90%: February, May,
August and November.
6. The pH shall not be less than 6.0 standard units nor greater than 9.0 standard units.
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts

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 PERMIT LIMIT (QRTRLY)
The effluent discharge shall at no time exhibit observable inhibition of reproduction or
significant mortality to Ceriodaphnia dubia at an effluent concentration of 90.0%.
The permit holder shall perform at a minimum, quarterlq monitoring using test
procedures outlined in the "North Carolina Ceriodaphnia Chronic Effluent Bioassay
Procedure," Revised February 1998, or subsequent versions or "North Carolina Phase II
Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure" (Revised -February 1998) or subsequent
versions. The tests will be performed during the months of February, May, August and
November. Effluent sampling for this testing shall be performed at the NPDES permitted
final effluent discharge below all treatment processes.
If the test procedure performed as the first test of any single quarter results in a failure or
ChV below the permit limit, then multiple -concentration testing shall be performed at a
minimum, in each of the two following months as described in "North Carolina Phase II
Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure" (Revised -February 1998) or subsequent
versions.
The chronic value for multiple concentration tests will be determined using the geometric
mean of the highest concentration having no detectable impairment of reproduction or
survival and the lowest concentration that does have a detectable impairment of
reproduction or survival. The definition of "detectable impairment," collection methods,
exposure regimes, and further statistical methods are specified in the "North Carolina
Phase II Chronic Whole Effluent Toxicity Test Procedure" (Revised -February 1998) or
subsequent versions.
All toxicity testing results required as part of this permit condition will be entered on the
Effluent Discharge Monitoring Form (MR-1) for the months in which tests were performed,
using the parameter code TGP3B for the pass/fail results and THP3B for the Chronic
Value. Additionally, DWQ Form AT-3 (original) is to be sent to the following address:

Permit NC0061123
Attention: Environmental Sciences Branch
North Carolina Division of
Water Quality
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
Completed Aquatic Toxicity Test Forms shall be filed with the Environmental Sciences
Branch no later than 30 days after the end of the reporting period for which the report is
made.
Test data shall be complete, accurate, include all supporting chemical/physical
measurements and all concentration/response data, and be certified by laboratory
supervisor and ORC or approved designate signature. 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 form 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 Branch at
the address cited above.
Should the permittee fail to monitor during a month in which toxicity monitoring is
required, monitoring will be required during the following month. Should any test data
from this monitoring requirement or tests performed by the North Carolina Division of
Water Quality indicate potential impacts to the receiving stream, this permit may be re-
opened and modified to include alternate monitoring requirements or limits.
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.

AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION
BUNCOMBE COUNTY
SS.
NORTH CAROLINA
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF
ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT
COMMISSION /
NPDES UNIT
16176/MIL
SERVICE
CENTER 99-117
NOTIFICATION OF
INTENT TO ISSUE A
NPDES WASTE WATER
PERMIT
On the nosh of thorough
staff review and applico-
Ilan of NC General Statute
143.21, Public law 52300
and other lawful stan-
dards, and regulations, the
North Carolina Environ-
mental Management
Commission proposes to
issue a National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) waste-
water discharge permit to
the person(s) listed below
effective 45 days from the
Publish are of this notice.
Written comments regard-
ing the proposed permit
will be accepted until 30
days after the publish dote
of this notice. All com-
ments received prior to
that date are considered in
the final determinations
regarding the proposed
Permit, The Director of
the NC Division of Water
Quality may decide to hold
a public meeting for the
proposed permit should
the. Division receive a sig-
nificant degree of public
interest.
Copies of the draft permit
and other supporting ln-.
formation on tile used to
determine conditions pre -
Sent in the draft permit are
available upon request
and payment of the costs
of reproduction. Mall
comments andbr requests
for information to the NC
Division of Water Quality
at the above address or
coil Ms. Christie Jackson
at (919) 733,50S7,extenslon
538. Please include the
NPDES permit number
(attached) in any Com-
munication Interested
persons may also visit the
Division of Water Quality
at 512 N. Salisbury Street.
Raleigh, NC 27604-1148 be-
tween the hours of 8:00 am
and 5:00 pm to review in-
formation on file.
NPDES Permit Number
NC0061123. THE MTN. 7
HIGHLANDS CAMP 8
CONF., 841 HWY. 106,
HIGHLANDS,NC 213741
has applied for a permit
renewal for a facility lo-
cated in MACON County
discharging treated
wastewater Into ABES
CREEK in the SAVAN-
NAH River Basin. Cur-
rently fecal coliform 8 to-
tal residual chlorine are
water quality limited. This
discharge may offed fu
lure allocations in this par
lion of the receiving
stream.
NPDES Permit Number
HO HOMEOWNERS ASS1. O-
CIATION, P.O. BOX 1709,
HIGHLANDS, NC 28741
has applied for a permit
renewal for a facility no-
toted in MACON Caunty-
discharging treated
wastewater Into BROOKS
CREEK in the SAVAN-
NAH River Basin. Cur-
rently ammonia. fecal co-
liform 8. total residual
chlorine are water quality
limited. This discharge
may affect future alloca-
tion In this portion of the
receiving stream.
NPDES Permit Number
N00061930. Mark Laurel
Homeowners Association
- Mountain Laurel Subdi•
vision, P.O. BOX 375,
Highlands, NC 28741 hos
applied for o permit re.
newel for a facility located
in Macon County dischare.
ing treated wastewater
into East Fork Overflow
Creek In the Savannah
River Basin. Currently
ammonia, fecal coliform
and total residual Chlorine
are water quality limited.
This discharge may affect
future allocations in this
portion of the receiving
stream.
[00'no
CU,iLIf'
l t E;,.,riCH
Before the undersigned, a Notary Public of said
County and State, duly commissioned, qualified and
authorized by law to administer oaths, personally
appeared Danyl Rhymes who, being first duly
sworn, deposes and says: that he is the Legal
Billing Clerk of TheAsheville Citizen -Times
Company, engaged in publication of a newspaper
known as The Asheville Citizen -Times, published,
issued, and entered as second class mail in the City
of Asheville, in said County and State; that she 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 Asheville Citizen -
Times on the following dates: June 1, 2002 And
that the said newspaper in which said notice, paper,
document or legal advertisement were published
were, at the time of each and every publication, a
newspaper meeting all of the requirements and
qualifications of Section 1-597 of the General
Statues of North Carolina and was a qualified
newspaper within the meaning of Section 1-597 of
the General Statues of North Carolina.
(Signature of pealmaking affidav'
Sworn to d subscribe before me the 19th day of
June, 2002
(Notary i t6lic)
My Commission expires the 20th day of June 2005.

PUBLIC NOTICE -
STnk ers
NORTH CAROLIN ,
ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEnrt:Nf
COMM]SS10N/NPDES UNIT
1617 MA})'. SERVICE.
C 11'ER
RALEIG1(C 29699-1617
NOTIFICATION OF INTENT
TO ISSUE A NPDES
WASTEWATER PERMIT
On - the basis of thorough
staff review and application of
NC General Statute 14321.
Public • law 92-500 and other
lawful standards and regulations,
the North Carolina Environ-
mental Management Commis-
sion proposes to issue. a
National Pollutant Discharge
(elimination System (NPDES1
wastewater discharge permit to
the person(s) ,listed below
effective 45 days from the
publish date of this notice.
Written comments regarding
the proposed permit will be
accepted until 30 days after the
publish dale of this notice. All
comments nwcircd prior to Mat
date arc considered in he final
determinationsregarding 'Mc
proposed permit. The Director of
the N.C. Division of Water
Quality may de kle to hold a
public meeting for the purposed
permit should Ole Division
receive a significant Ugpte of
public interest. •
Copies of the draft permit ;ad
other supporting: inRumution on
file .used to determine conditions
present in the draft permit are
available upon request - and
payment of the costs of Nino-
du:tion. Mail comments and/or
requests for information to the
N.C. Division of Water Quality
at the. above address or call Ms.
Christie Jackson al 919 733-
5083, evtenshut 53g. •Please
include the NPDES permit
number (attached) in any
communication. Interested per-
sons may also visit the Division
of Water Quality at 512 N.
Sulisbury Street. Raleigh.' NC
27.604-1148 between the hours
of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to
review infonnation on tile.
CLIPPING OF LEGAL
ADVERTISEMENT
ATTA '-^ HERE
NPDES Penult Number
NC0061123, THE MTN./
HIGHLANDS CAMP e4
CONE, 841 IIWY (06.
HIGHLANDS, NC 28741 has
applied for a permit renewal fin a
facility located .in MACON
County discharging treated
wastewater into ABES CREEK
in the SAVANNAH River
Basin. Currently fecal cnlifonn
& total residual chlorine are
water quality limited. This
discharge muy affect future
allocations in this portion of the
receiving stream.
NPDES Permit Number
NC0037711, VZTOP HOME-
OWNERS ASSOCIATION;
P.O. BOX 1709: HIGHLANDS.
NC 28741 has applied tin u
permit renewal fin a facility
located in MACON County
discharging treated wastewater
into BROOKS CREEK in the
SAVANNAH River Basin.
Currently ammonia, fecal
colifurm & total residual
chlorine •are water quality
limited. This discharge may
affect future allocations in this.
portion of the receiving stream.
NPDES Permit Number NC
0061930, Murk Laurel Home-
owners Association — Mountain
Laurel Subdivision. P. 0. BOX
375. Highlands. NC 28741 has'
applied fur u permit renewal for a
facility Located in Macon County
discharging treated wastewater,
into East Foils. Overflow Creek
in • the Savannah River Basin.
currently ammonia, fecal
colifonn and total residual.
chlorine are water quality
limited. This discharge may
affect future allocations in this.
portion of the receiving stream.
6/4-T-c
NORTH CAROLINA
Macon County
4te
AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION
Before the undersigned, a Notary Public of said County and State,
duly commissioned, qualified, and authorized by law to administer
oaths, personally appeared
SHEILA W. WHITE
who is first duly sworn, deposes and says: that he -she is
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
(Owner, partner, publisher, or other officer or employee authorized to make this affidavit)
of The Franklin Press, engaged in the publication of a newspaper
known as The Franklin Press published, issued, and entered as sec-
ond class mail in the Town of Franklin, in said County.and State; that
he -she is authorized to make this affidavit and sworn statement; that
the notice or other legal advertisement, a true copy of which is at-
tached hereto, was published in The Franklin Press on the following
dates:
June 4, 2002
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 of the requirements
and qualifications of Section 1-597 of the General Statutes of North
Carolina and was a qualified newspaper within the meaning of Sec-
ond 1-597 of the General Statutes of North Carolina.
This 3rd day of July 2002
(Signature of person making affidavit)
Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 3rd
day of johull
Notary Public
My Commission expires: AUGUST 21, 2006
July .2002

Residual Chlorine and Ammonia Toxicity Assessment
Residual Chlorine
s7Q10 (CFS)
DESIGN FLOW (MGD)
DESIGN FLOW (CFS)
STREAM STD (UG/L)
UPS BACKGROUND LEVEL
IWC (%)
Allowable Concentration (ug
Fecal Limit
Ratio of 0.0 :1
Ammonia as NH3
(summer)
s7Q10 (CFS) 0
DESIGN FLOW (MGD) 0.006
DESIGN FLOW (CFS) 0.0093
STREAM STD (MG/L) 1.0
UPS BACKGROUND LEVEL 0.22
IWC (%) 100.00
Allowable Concentration (rr 1.00
Ammonia as NH3
(winter)
w7Q10 (CFS)
200/100mI DESIGN FLOW (MGD)
DESIGN FLOW (CFS)
STREAM STD (MG/L)
UPS BACKGROUND LEVEL
IWC (%)
Allowable Concentration (rr
.................
.................
.................
0.006
0.0093
1.8
0.22
11.73
13.69
5/6/02
CRJ
NC0061123

Chapter 1 -
Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01
Includes the Tullulah and Chattooga Rivers
1.1 Water Quality Overview
41101011111111-7.161.1014,^"..."..1.,..• _
Subbasin 03-13-01 at a Glance
t Land and Water
Land area: 72 mi2
Stream miles: 76.6
Lake acres: 21
Population Statistics
1990 Est. pop.: 1,640 people
I_ Pop. density: 23 persons/mil
k
Land Cover (%)
kForest/Wefiland:
' Surface Water:
Urban:
Cultivated Crop:
Pasture/
Managed Herbaceous:
96.8
0.6
0.4
0.1
2.1
ft6La I Una -I w Ptw7
-RY GOA) wad
ptiv-
Piay
This mountainous subbasin is divided into two pieces: a
small portion of the Tullulah River headwaters in Clay
County and a larger portion of the basin that includes the
Chattooga River, as well as Big, Clear and Overflow
Creeks. The majority of streams in this subbasin flow
generally south toward Georgia; however, the Chattooga
River forms part of the state boundary between Georgia
and South Carolina. The Chattooga and Tullulah Rivers
join to form the Tugaloo River in Georgia. A map of this
subbasin including water quality sampling locations is
presented as Figure B-1.
Bioclassifications for sample locations are presented in
Table B-1. Use support ratings for each applicable
category in this subbasin are summarized in Tab1e.B-2.
Refer to Appendix III for a complete listing of monitored
waters and further information about use support ratings.
Most of the land within this subbasin is forested (97 percent) and lies within the Nantahala
National Forest which includes the Southern Nantahala Wilderness and the Ellicott Rock
Wilderness areas. Although the Town of Highlands lies primarily in the Little Tennessee River
basin, the fringes, including many new residential subdivisions, are located in this subbasin.
This subbasin also contains the majority of the Cashiers community.
Water quality in this subbasin is generally excellent. Nearly all waters are classified trout waters,
and the Chattooga River along with many of its tributaries including the Scotsman, Overflow and
Big Creek watersheds are classified Outstanding Resource Waters. Additionally, 17 miles of the
Chattooga River are a National Wild and Scenic River.
There are five permitted dischargers in this subbasin; all were in compliance with permit limits
over the most recent review period. Two facilities are required to monitor the toxicity of their
discharge: The Mountain (formerly known as the Highlands Camp and Conference Center) and
the Cashiers WWTP. The Mountain, which discharges to Abes Creek, has experienced toxicity
problems since monitoring began in 1993. Abes Creek and this facility are discussed further on
page 59.
Section B: Chapter 1 - Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 52

Figure B-1 Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01
` : Highlands
MACON
Legend
CDSubbasin Boundary ' USGS Gaping Station
County Boundary () Ambient Monitoring Station
Nydrography 4 8enthio Special Studies
Developed Areas t Benthic Station _---`
2 0
2 Mks
JACKSON
NCDENR
Planning B ranch
Basinwide & Estuary Planning Unit
January 30, 2002
Figure B-1 Sampling Locations within Subbasin 03-13-01
Section B: Chapter 1 — Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01
53

Table B-1 DWQ Monitoring Locations and Benthic Macroinvertebrate Bioclassifications
(1999) for Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01
Site
Stream
County
Location
Bioclassification
Benthic Macroinvertebrates
B-2*
Chattooga River
Jackson
SR 1100
Excellent
B-13*
Big Creek
Macon
SR 1608
Excellent
SS-1
Clear Creek
Macon
SR 1618
Excellent
SS-2*
Fowler Creek
Jackson
SR 1107
Excellent
SS-3*
Norton Mil Creek
Jackson
SR 1107
Excellent
SS-4*
Scotsman Creek
Jackson
SR 1100
Excellent
SS-5
Abes Creek
Macon
Near origin
Not Impaired
* Historical data are available; refer to Appendix B.
Excellent water quality was documented for all major streams in this subbasin in 1999.
Excellent or Good water quality likely exists in many of the smaller streams as well; however,
some tributaries may be impacted by construction activities and runoff from developed areas.
The benthic macroinvertebrate community in the Chattooga River has been sampled five times at
SR 1100 since 1988 and has always received an Excellent bioclassification. Some of the most
pollution intolerant species of insects have been common or even abundant.
In November 2001, DWQ biologists within the Environmental Sciences Branch conducted a
special study of the benthic macroinvertebrate community at two sites on the upper Chattooga
River which are not represented on Figure B-1: 50 meters above the Cashiers WWTP discharge
and 50 meters below the discharge. Results indicate that the Chattooga River above the Cashiers
WWTP discharge is Not Impaired. However, the benthic macroinvertebrate community in the
Chattooga River below the Cashiers WWTP is being significantly impacted. For further
discussion of the upper section of the Chattooga River, refer to page 57.
Benthic macroinvertebrates have been sampled three times in Big Creek. Excellent
bioclassifications have been assigned in all three years, although an increasing amount of
sedimentation has been observed since the stream was first sampled in 1987.
A study of the Chattooga River watershed, published by the US Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) Region IV in early 1999, suggests that five streams in this subbasin are impacted
(potentially impaired) because of sedimentation. Subsequently, DWQ conducted a special study
of these streams (Big, Clear, Fowler, Norton Mill and Scotsman Creeks) in June and July 1999.
All streams received Excellent bioclassifications, although Clear Creek and Norton Mill Creek
received lower habitat scores and were "borderline" Excellent/Good (NCDENR-DWQ,
November 3, 1999).
Headwater streams in portions of the Savannah and Little Tennessee River basins, including
Fowler Creek, Upper Chattooga River, Norton Mill Creek and Panthertown Creek, appear to be
naturally sandy, making it difficult to separate the effects of local geology from the effects of
Section B: Chapter 1 — Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 54

pollution. Streams within this geologic region, called Whiteside Granite, frequently contain a
large proportion of sand and gravel substrate, yet also contain very diverse benthic
macroinvertebrate communities, including a high percentage species indicative of good water
quality (NCDENR-DWQ, November 19, 2001).
DWQ also sampled Abes Creek in 1999, to evaluate the potential impact from The Mountain's
discharge toxicity test failures (see page 59). This stream is too small for biologists to assign a
bioclassification, but insects typical of a small, clean, mountain stream were collected.
For more detailed information on sampling and assessment of streams and lakes in this subbasin,
refer to the Basinwide Assessment Report — Savannah River Basin (NCDENR-DWQ, March
2000), available from DWQ Environmental Sciences Branch at http://www.esb.enr.state.nc.us/bar.html
or by calling [phone].
Table B-2 Use Support Ratings Summary (2000) for Monitored and Evaluated Waters in
Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01
Use Support
Category
FS
PS
NS
-
NR
Total'
Aquatic Life/
Secondary Recreation
69.5 mi
0.0 ac
0.0 mi
0.0 ac
0.0 mi
0.0 ac
7.1 mi
21 ac
76.6 mi
21 ac
Fish Consumption
76.6 mi
21 ac
0.0 mi
0.0 ac
0.0 mi
0.0 ac
0.0 mi
0.0 ac
76.6 mi
21 ac
Primary Recreation
0.0 mi
0.0 ac
0.0 mi
0.0 ac
0.0 mi
0.0 ac
13.2 mi
21 ac
13.2 mi
21 ac
Total miles/acres assigned o each use support category in this subbasin. Column is not additive
because some waters are assigned to more than one category.
1.2 Status and Recommendations for Previously Impaired Waters
This section reviews use support and recommendations detailed in the 1997 basinwide plan,
reports status of progress, gives recommendations for the next five-year cycle, and outlines
current projects aimed at improving water quality for each water. The 1997 Savannah River
Basinwide Plan identified one impaired water in this subbasin: Norton Mill Creek. This stream
is no longer considered impaired and is discussed in further detail below.
1.2.1 Norton Mill Creek (4.5 miles from source to the Chattooga River)
1997 Recommendations
This stream was rated as impaired during the last basin cycle by using fish community data from
SR 1107 that resulted in a Fair bioclassification. The recommendation was to evaluate the
sources of sedimentation and/or excess nutrients in the watershed.
Status of Progress
No fish community basinwide monitoring was conducted during the most recent basin cycle
because of recent revisions and a reexamination of the criteria and metrics. Historical fish
Section B: Chapter 1— Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 55

community bioclassifications have been revised to reflect better knowledge of fish communities
in coldwater mountain streams.
Currently, benthic macroinvertebrate data are used to provide bioclassifications for high
elevation trout streams. These data, while not a direct measure of the fish community, are a
robust measure of stream integrity. Loss of canopy, increase in stream temperature, increased
nutrients, toxicity and increased sedimentation will affect both the benthic macroinvertebrate and
fish communities. For these reasons, benthic macroinvertebrate bioclassifications provide a
valuable assessment of biological integrity (Appendix III).
In 1999, benthic macroinvertebrates in Norton Mill Creek were sampled at one site about
halfway down the length of the stream (at SR 1107). This site is located well below Camelot
Lake. The site received an Excellent benthic macroinvertebrate bioclassification, and the stream
at this location is currently rated fully supporting. During the public comment period, citizens
questioned the use of this site to rate waters above the lake and provided DWQ with a report
prepared by Fish and Wildlife Associates, Inc. entitled Westside Cove Biological and Water
Quality Monitoring Program.
Samples were collected by Fish and Wildlife Associates during September and October 2000
from both Camelot Lake and Norton Mill Creek above the lake and analyzed for nutrients, pH,
conductivity, temperature and dissolved oxygen. Benthic macroinvertebrates, fish population
and sediment samples were also collected and a wetland delineation was done (Boaze, 2001).
In light of these concerns, the upper portion of Norton Mill Creek from its source to an unnamed
tributary below Camelot Lake is currently Not Rated. DWQ will attempt to sample this portion
of stream during the next basinwide planning cycle (likely in the summer of 2004). DWQ's
ORW management strategy for the Chattooga River applies to the entire Norton Mill Creek
watershed (refer to page 60). Recommendations for reducing sedimentation (and the
corresponding nutrient load) are discussed on page 46.
1.3 Status and Recommendations for Newly Impaired Waters
No additional stream segments in this subbasin were rated as impaired based on recent DWQ
monitoring (1994-1999). Part 1.5 below discusses specific streams where water quality impacts
have been observed.
1.4 303(d) Listed Waters
Norton Mill Creek (discussed above) is the only water listed on the state's year 2000 303(d) list.
Refer to Appendix IV for more information on the state's 303(d) list and listing requirements.
1.5 Other Water Quality Concerns and Recommendations
Based on DWQ's most recent use support assessment, the surface waters discussed in this
section are not impaired. However, notable water quality impacts were documented during this
process. While these waters are not considered impaired, attention and resources should be
Section B: Chapter 1— Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 56

focused on them over the next basinwide planning cycle to prevent additional degradation or
facilitate water quality improvement. A discussion of how impairment is determined can be
found on page 35.
Although no action is required for these streams, voluntary implementation of BMPs is
encouraged and continued monitoring is recommended. DWQ will notify local agencies and
others of water quality concerns discussed below and work with them to conduct further
monitoring and to locate sources of water quality protection funding. Additionally, education on
local water quality issues is always a useful tool to prevent water quality problems and to
promote restoration efforts. Nonpoint source agency contacts are listed in Appendix VI.
1.5.1 Chattooga River Headwaters
Although the Chattooga River has historically received Excellent bioclassifications at the
basinwide sampling location relatively close to the NC/GA/SC state line, the level of sediment
observed in the stream at this location has been increasing. The Cashiers community and US
Highway 64 occupy much of the land in the Chattooga River headwaters. Residential and
commercial resort development continues to increase steadily in this area, and concerns were
expressed by participants at DWQ's Savannah River Basinwide Water Quality Workshop in
October 2000 about the substantial increase in impervious surfaces in and around Cashiers.
Concerns were also expressed about the Cashiers WWTP (owned/operated by Tuckaseigee
Water and Sewer Authority - TWSA). This facility is currently nearing its operational capacity
(100,000 gallons/day) during the summer months when many of the resorts are full, and there are
plans to build additional capacity at the present location. TWSA currently holds a NPDES
permit to discharge 200,000 gallons/day into the Chattooga River below Cashiers Lake;
therefore, this physical/operational expansion is not a permit expansion. This permit was issued
in 1986 before the Chattooga River was classified ORW in 1989.
At the current discharge flow level (100,000 gallons/day), the Cashiers WWTP must comply
with permit limits of a monthly average of 30 mg/1 of BOD. Fairly simplistic treatment, called
secondary wastewater treatment, is required to meet these limits. However, the Cashiers WWTP
currently uses a more advanced wastewater treatment process called tertiary treatment. The
tertiary wastewater treatment plant includes extended aeration for BOD reduction and
nitrification for ammonia reduction (or conversion of ammonia to nitrates/nitrates). The plant
also has tertiary filters for further reduction of solids and BOD. Chlorination for disinfection, as
well as dechlorination for removal of residual chlorine, are also employed at the plant.
With an increase in flow to the permitted capacity (200,000 gallons/day), the facility will be
required to meet limits of a monthly average of 15 mg/1 of BOD and 2.2 mg/1 of ammonia during
the summer (4.8 mg/1 in winter). With the low level of ammonia -nitrogen required by the
NPDES permit, advanced wastewater treatment would be critical to meet these requirements and
it is already in place for the expanded facility. Additionally, greater clarification (to aid in solids
removal) is proposed with the new plant. Greater solids settling and removal may also aid in
additional BOD removal.
Section B: Chapter 1— Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 57

Although the Cashiers WWTP failed four toxicity tests between 1993 and 1996, the facility was
in compliance with both discharge and toxicity permit requirements over the review period used
to determine use support ratings (1998-1999). The most recent inspection of the facility in June
2001 also revealed compliance with permit requirements.
In November 2001, DWQ biologists within the Environmental Sciences Branch (ESB)
conducted a special study of the benthic macroinvertebrate community at two sites on the upper
Chattooga River: 50 meters above the Cashiers WWTP discharge and 50 meters below the
discharge. An unnamed tributary to Shortoff Creek was selected from the ESB database as a
comparable stream in Jackson County. Results indicate that the Chattooga River above the
Cashiers WWTP discharge is Not Impaired. However, the benthic macroinvertebrate community
in the Chattooga River below the Cashiers WWTP is being significantly impacted. None of the
dominant insects indicated low dissolved oxygen or an increase in organic loading. It is more
likely that there is some instream toxicity (NCDENR-DWQ, November 2001). Because the
stream is too small to meet the criteria for assigning a benthic macroinvertebrate
bioclassification, this portion of the Chattooga River is Not Rated (refer to Appendix III for
details about "small stream" use support ratings). Section A, Part 3.3 (page 31) discusses the use
of benthic macroinvertebrate data to assess the biological condition of streams.
Instream fecal coliform data, collected by TWSA upstream and downstream of the Cashiers
WWTP plant, indicate elevated levels of fecal coliform above the wastewater treatment plant
discharge. DWQ does not have an ambient monitoring station for physicalkhemical data,
including fecal coliform on the Chattooga River. The entire length of the river in North Carolina
is classified for primary recreation in addition to aquatic life and secondary recreation (Class B).
However, until recently, DWQ had no reason to suspect that these uses were not being met.
Fecal coliform bacteria are widely used as an indicator of the potential presence of pathogens
typically associated with the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals. The water quality
standard for fecal coliform bacteria is based on a geometric mean of 200 colonies/100m1. DWQ
did not collect enough data during this basinwide planning cycle to appropriately assess the
primary recreation use for the Chattooga River. Therefore, the stream is currently Not Rated in
this category.
Cashiers Lake
DWQ sampled Cashiers Lake as part of a special study for modeling purposes in 1994. The
1997 Savannah River basin plan discussed excess nutrients, high turbidity and indicators of
moderate algal productivity. Recommendations were for a citizen monitoring program
(including turbidity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, fecal coliform and nutrient measurements)
to supplement DWQ data. The plan also recommended that a nutrient budget be developed for
the watershed above the lake. This budget could then be used to develop management strategies
for nutrient reduction.
Because the land around this lake is privately owned (i.e., no public access), DWQ does not plan
to sample it as part of the lakes monitoring program. If DWQ receives a request for lake
sampling based on a specific water quality concern, access from the appropriate owners will be
pursued. DWQ recommends that a citizen monitoring program be established and that a nutrient
budget be developed as described in the 1997 Savannah River basin plan.
Section B: Chapter 1— Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 58

Recommendations
At this time, it is DWQ's position that the permit limitations for the current flow (0.1 MGD) of
the Cashiers WWTP are still protective of the designated uses for which the Chattooga River is
currently classified. DWQ also believes that the permitted flow and its corresponding permit
limitations can also be achieved while protecting the designed uses of the Chattooga River at the
current location. However, if TWSA does not proceed forward with the plant expansion, DWQ
will still require the owner to provide additional clarification to accommodate peak loading
because the current clarifiers are under -designed and overloaded during peak flow conditions
(summer months).
DWQ plans to conduct (unannounced) instream and effluent toxicity testing at the Cashiers
WWTP plant prior to intensive biological sampling of the Savannah River basin in 2004. DWQ
also plans to resample the upper Chattooga River below the Cashiers WWTP at that time, if
change in the benthic macroinvertebrate community is expected. DWQ will pay special attention
to chlorine data on discharge monitoring reports for the Cashiers WWTP and occasionally
sample the effluent (unannounced). DWQ has already recommended in writing to TWSA that an
evaluation of chlorine use and the functionality of the dechlorination system should be performed
at the plant.
As resources allow, DWQ will also monitor fecal coliform bacteria levels in the Chattooga River.
There are no permitted point source discharges in the watershed above the Cashiers WWTP.
Therefore, a study is needed to determine contributions of straight pipes, leaking and failing
septic systems to the elevated fecal coliform levels. Runoff from developed areas, as well as
primary recreation activities, also contribute bacteria to lakes and streams.
Growth management in this area within the next five years will be imperative in order to restore
and maintain good water quality in the Chattooga River headwaters. Growth management can be
defined as the application of strategies and practices that help achieve sustainable development in
harmony with the conservation of environmental qualities and features of an area. On a local
level, growth management often involves planning and development review requirements for
construction that are designed to maintain or improve water quality. Growth management also
includes planning for increasing water supply and wastewater treatment needs. An organized
group of dedicated citizens can be an effective tool for affecting water quality improvement and
protection in a watershed. For general recommendations about best management practices to
control sedimentation and pollution from urban runoff, please refer to Section A, Chapter 4.
1.5.2 Abes Creek
Abes Creek is part of the Overflow Creek watershed which is classified Outstanding Resource
Waters. The Highlands Camp and Conference Center (currently called The Mountain) WWTP is
one of two dischargers in the watershed permitted before the ORW designation and management
strategy were applied. Chronic toxicity problems at this facility were discussed in the 1997 basin
plan. The Mountain has experienced problems meeting its toxicity permit limits since
monitoring began in 1993. In seven years (1993-1999), only 31 percent of tests met permitted
limits for toxicity. Enforcement action was taken by DWQ during the previous basinwide cycle
Section B: Chapter 1— Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 59

(1991-1995), and it seemed the facility had resolved the toxicity problems by changing
detergents that were used in dishwashing and laundry activities.
In 1999, The Mountain began to again experience problems meeting toxicity limits. Current
problems are attributed to low pH in the retreat center's well water supply. The facility installed
a new well; however, pH levels are still as low as 3.2. DWQ assessed the facility a fine of
$2,000 in 1999, and an Asheville Regional Office inspector is continuing to provide technical
assistance. It is common in the mountain region for facilities to have to perform pH control
measures for their water supplies in order to alleviate problems with wastewater treatment. It is
recommended that The Mountain pursue ways to raise the pH of its drinking water.
Fortunately, it appears that these toxicity problems have not yet adversely impacted Abes Creek.
DWQ collected a benthic macroinvertebrate sample from the stream in June 1999. Although the
stream is too small for biologists to assign a bioclassification, insects typical of a small, clean,
mountain stream were collected.
1.6 Additional Issues within this Subbasin
The previous part discussed water quality concerns for specific stream segments. This section
discusses water quality issues related to multiple watersheds within subbasin 03-13-01. Habitat
degradation in smaller streams that DWQ does not monitor was a concern expressed by
participants of the public workshop and forum held in the Savannah River basin.
1.6.1 Habitat Degradation in Smaller Streams
Although no water quality data have been collected by DWQ for smaller streams draining the
south side of Highlands, increased development in this area presents the potential for habitat
degradation in the headwaters of Big Creek, Clear Creek and East Fork Overflow Creek. DWQ
biologists noted that although the sampling location on Big Creek is located in a forested area,
substantial development exists in the upper sections of the watershed, including both residential
and agricultural land uses. These activities have contributed to increasing sedimentation at the
sampling location; therefore, smaller tributaries could be more heavily impacted. Higher
amounts of habitat degradation were also noted for Clear Creek at the 1999 special study location
near the confluence of Brooks Creek. For general recommendations on habitat degradation and
best management practices, please refer to page 46.
1.6.2 Outstanding Resource Waters
With the exception of the Tullulah River and Clear Creek watersheds, an Outstanding Resource
Water (ORW) management strategy applies to all waters within this subbasin. Figure B-2
presents the area and Table B-3 lists the waters to which an ORW management strategy applies.
Table B-3 also distinguishes between those waters classified ORW and those to which the
modified management strategy applies.
Section B: Chapter 1 - Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 60

Figure B-2 Chattooga River ORW Area
Table B-3 Waters to which an ORW Management Strategy Applies
Watershed
Management Strategy Status
Chattooga River mainstem & two headwater tributaries
Classified ORW
Scotsman Creek and its tributaries
Classified ORW
Big Creek and its tributaries incl. Edwards & Little Creeks
Classified ORW
East & West Fork Overflow Creeks and tributaries
Classified ORW
North & South Fowler Creeks and tributaries
Modified management strategy applies
Green & Norton Mill Creeks and tributaries
Modified management strategy applies
Cane Creek and its tributaries
Modified management strategy applies
Ammons Branch and Glade Creek
Modified management strategy applies
Special protection measures that apply to waters classified ORW are set forth in 15A NCAC 02B
.0225. No new discharges or expansions are permitted and a 30-foot buffer or stormwater
controls are required for most new development. Specifically, development activities requiring a
Sediment/Erosion Control Plan will be regulated as follows:
Section B: Chapter 1— Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01
61

Low Density Option: Developments which limit single family developments to one acre Lots and
other types of developments to 12 percent built -upon area, have no stormwater collection system
as defined in 2H .1002(13), and have built -upon areas at least 30 feet from surface waters will be
deemed to be in compliance.
High Density Option: Higher density developments will be allowed if stormwater control
systems utilizing wet detention ponds as described in 2H .1003(i), (k) and (1) are installed,
operated and maintained, so that the runoff from all built -upon areas generated from one inch of
rainfall is controlled. The size of the control system must take into account the runoff from any
pervious surfaces draining to the system.
The Asheville Regional Office of the Division of Land Resources (DLR), Land Quality Section
has maps showing this and ORW areas throughout the region. When a construction project on
land that is larger than one acre is proposed in an ORW watershed, DWQ is notified by DLR and
these more stringent development standards are required as part of the sediment/erosion control
plan approval process. Additionally, when DWQ receives a request for a permit for a discharge
from a new subdivision, construction of a new sewer line, or for a 401 certification, DWQ
determines the stream classification and notifies the local government and the applicant of these
requirements. DWQ is also working through the Councils of Government (COGs) to further
educate local governments about the requirements of ORW and HQW as well as to inform them
about what waters carry these protective classifications.
The only difference between the strategies presented in Table B-3 is that existing discharges on
waters not classified ORW will be allowed to expand, provided there is no increase in pollutant
loading. The prohibition of new discharges and the development restrictions outlined above
apply equally to those waters classified ORW and those with a modified management strategy.
The e are z e- - istin a' i arees within the modi ed anage t str. area:
Cullasaja Homeo Asso , Ma rel ` : o _ er ssocia ion
No Coned - PeY Ca Lit t
moGol-6 t l Cow : YY1 Maio aol (zs) Ctat asa jw (vm
atm
'C(assi _R ed o = 'yiar(Am.( oil l qso) Casifl r e .c (sus Pcymi 4)
Section B: Chapter 1 — Savannah River Subbasin 03-13-01 62

SAVANNAH, HIWASEE, LITTLE TENNESSEE & WATAUGA
RIVER BASIN
Implementation Packet
Revised July 15, 2002
Originally Based on the 2002 Basinwide Water Qua/fty Plans
Callie Dobson
NC DENR - D WQ
Basinwide Planning Program
[e-mail]
919-733-5083 x583
This information packet has been designed to help facilitate communication between the Asheville and Winston-Salem Regional
Offices, the NPDES Unit and the Basinwide Planning Program on activities in the Savannah, Hiwassee, Little Tennessee and
Watauga basins. The packet will be used to assist DWQ with implementation of some of the recommendations set out in the
2002 Basinwide Water Quality Plans for these basins. Information recorded in this packet by Regional Office staff will also be
used by the Basinwide Planning Program in developing the 2007 basin plans.
Again, the idea here is to not run up on 2007 and have to review five years worth of information! Implementation meetings will
be held every 6 months (or so) to review this packet. If we stay in good communication with each other, the face-to-face
meetings will be short and sweet! I appreciate the work that you do. It makes my job easier! CaII me anytime.
1

SAVANNAH RIVER BASIN (07/16/02)
Contact: Callie Dobson, 919/733-5083, ext. 583
SAVANNAH — Subbasin 03-13-01
Water
Subbasin
Status
Recommendation
Comments (Jul 02)
Norton Mill Creek
03-13-01
Headwaters draining to Camelot Lake
are seeing lots of development.
Elevated nutrient levels in the lake.
Whole watershed under ORW mgmt
strategy for Chattooga River
Sample above the lake next time.
Implement ORW mgmt strategy;
expansion must maintain existing
loading (Cullasaja Homeowners).
Chattooga River
03-13-01
Headwaters draining to Cashiers Lake
continue to be developed. Lake is
eutrophic with elevated DO, pH and
algae blooms. Sampling ab and be
Cashiers WWTP show problems with
the facility. Sampling also shows
elevated fecal coliform levels ab the
facility, but drastically reduced be.
Citizens should start a volunteer
monitoring program around the lake.
Need for planning (Cashiers isn't even
incorporated). Work with the facility
to find out what the problem is.
Susan says they already have chlorine limits.
Probably just need to wait for the increased
capacity to settle in and resample next time
around.
All waters in subbasin 01
with the exception of the
Clear Creek watershed
03-13-01
Classified ORW or a modified
management strategy applies. Mark
Laurel, The Mnnntain and C'achierclop
Implement ORW management strategy.
O f' O t ��
C t w
pll Pam- WWI
t' 1�-�-
14162
.
WWTP can't expand. No new
discharges into these waters. Cullasaja
Homeowners can expand, but must
maintain existing loading.
Permit
Facility
Who?
County
Region
Type
MGD
Receiving
Stream
NPDES Comments
NCU064416
NC0061930
Cullasaja 1-loineowners
Association
Mark Laurel Homeowner's
Association
Teresa
Christie
Jackson
Macon
Asheville
Minor
Non -Municipal
0.15
0.042
Norton Mill
Creek
East Fork
Overflow Creek
_
Asheville
Minor
Non -Municipal
NC0061123
The Mountain/Highlands
Camp & Conference
Christie
Macon
Asheville
Minor
Non -Municipal
0.006
Abes Creek
___ ___ _
NC0063321
Tuckaseigee W&SA -
Cashiers WWTP
Christie
Jackson
Asheville
Minor
Municipal
0.1
UT Chattooga
River _
_ _ __. _.______,_,_,__._-_...-
NC0037711
Vztop Homeowners
Association
Christie
Macon
Asheville
Minor
Non -Municipal
0.028
Brooks Creek
*red Flag means this permit is not necessarily status quo

Draft Permit Reviews
Subject: Draft Permit Reviews
Date: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 16:09:09 -0400
From: Matt Matthews <[e-mail]>
To: [e-mail]
Christie,
I've reviewed the following draft permits:
The Mountain WWTP NC0061123
Carolina Mountain Water Bottling Plant NC0067954
Sugar Mountain WWTP NC0022900
All of these look fine as regards implementation of whole effluent toxicity.
Thanks for the opportunity to comment.
Matt
Matt Matthews
NC DENR/Division of Water Quality
Aquatic Toxicology Unit
1621 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1621
v-[phone]
f-[phone]
MailTo:[e-mail]
A few observations and much reasoning lead to error;
marry observations and a little reasoning to truth.
--Alexis Carrel
1 of 1
7/8/02 9:24 AM

the
mountain
20 YEP DE COMMUNITY
The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, inc.
April 10 , 2002
Mrs. Valery Stevens
NCDENR / Water Quality Section / Point Source Branch
1617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1617
Subject: Permit Renewal Package
NPDES Permit NC0061123
Highlands Camp and
Conference Center,
Macon County
Dear Mrs. Stevens,
Please find enclosed our permit renewal package. In the application,
please note the change in the facility name from " Highlands Camp & Conference
Center" to "The Mountain Retreat & Learning Centers." There has been no change in
ownership of the facility, just the name.
The only physical changes to the WWTP since our previous renewal
are the addition of (2) septic tanks prior to the sand filters, for better settliricl of any
suspended solids which might have reached the plant. These changes were
recomended by the Asheville Regional Office of NCDENR.
The Sludge/ Solids Management Plan for this facility is through
ongoing monitoring of the septic tanks for solids accumulation and then pumping as
required. Our present pumping contractor is "Lee's Septic Service" of Franklin NC. I
have been informed that the contractor disposes of the solids at Franklin WWTP.
I believe this is all the information you will require for the renewal of
the permit. Please do not hesitate to contact me by telephone at 828-526-5838 if
further information is required.
Sheerly,
Ian R Denham
Facilities Director.
/l
Vff ilTil
APR 1 7 2002
DEUR - WATER QUALITY
POINT SOURCE BRANCH
P.O. Box 1299 • Highlands, NC 28741 • [phone] • fax [phone]
email: mountain@ dnet.net • web site: http://themountain.uua.org/mountain/

NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION - SHORT FORM D
To be filed only by dischargers of 100% domestic wastewater (<1 MGD flow)
N. C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality / NPDES Unit
1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1617
North Carolina NPDES Permit Number
(if known)
NC00 4 // 2 .
Please print or type
1. Mailing address of applicant/permittee:
Facility Name
Owner Name
Street Address
City
State
ZIP Code
Telephone Number
Fax Number
e-mail Address
1-N4 IfoliA,M d
/697N/43 of,,mus /./v4,
Po 8Dx /299
U74/
( 922) S2
(s28) 526,- 2s7/
2. Location of facility producing discharge:
Name (If different from above)
Facility_ Contact Person
Street Address or State Road
City / Zip Code
County
Telephone Number
"An/ • R l vii
.3g 72 Z 'tt.Ad S /2o
iy /L0nf3 A/c 20741
A,4cbA/
(826 ) S2(- S03
3. Reason for application:
Expansion/Modification * Existing Unpermitted Discharge
Renewal x New Facility
* Please provide a description of the expansion/modification:
4. Description of the existing treatment facilities (list all installed components with
capacities):
t /G 7712.4. efAA7c 7751/1./6 j1 f -Gib c4 2 'i 4i J /Fri
Z)bS.0QJS '74``V/C/ e6L Or / M c. t94/- 477' 4J r Tip 7114164r /'=/t,L424 i
-t31� ae, 447/0-if As-e#1.o/Z/-c/ :/Dv ( eesc4 t f i2 77/
Page 1 of 2 Version 11 /2000

•
NPDES PERMIT APPLICATION - SHORT FORM D
To be filed only by dischargers of 100% domestic wastewater (<1 MGD flow)
5. Description of wastewater (check all that apply):
Type of Facility Generating Wastewater
Industrial Number of Employees
Commercial Number of Employees
Residential t/ Number of Homes
School Number of Students/Staff
Other `
Describe the source(s) of wastewater (example: subdivision, mobile home park, etc.):
Co NP,Ligilc'f. exAmiA 0r/'? 0 iidjit (e roe C /01- (fil
6. Number of separate wastewater discharge pipes .(wastewater outfalls):
.. 7. If the facility has multiple discharge outfalls, record the source(s) of wastewater for each
outfall:
A/M-
8. Name of receiving stream(s) (Provide a map showing the exact location of each outfall):
NS& J eoike
I certify that I am familiar with the information contained in the application and that to the
best of my knowledge and belief such information is true, complete, and accurate.
R _ Z>.'il /V4-41
Printed Name of Person Signing
Title
Pnc L i %//c cS
r
-Z2
Signature of Applicant Date Signed
North Carolina General Statute 143-215.68 (i) provides that: Any person who knowingly makes any false statement representation, or
certification in any application, record, report, plan, or other document files or required to be maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the
Environmental Management Commission implementing that Article, or who falsifies, tampers with, or knowingly renders inaccurate any
recording or monitoring device or method required to be operated or maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the Environmental
Management Commission implementing that Article, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000, or by
imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both. (18 U.S.C. Section 1001 provides a punishment by a fine of not more than $10,000 or
imprisonment not more than 5 years, or both for a similar offense.)
Page 2 of 2 Version 11/2000