HomeMy WebLinkAboutChapter 3
Chapter 3
Roanoke River Subbasin 03-02-03
Including: Dan River, Smith River, Hogans Creek and Wolf Island Creek
3.1 Subbasin Overview
This subbasin contains approximately 25 river miles of the
Dan River, prior to it flowing back into Virginia. The Smith
River is a major tributary of the Dan River in this subbasin,
but most of its watershed is in Virginia and its flow is
regulated by upstream releases primarily from Philpott
Reservoir and secondarily from Martinsville Reservoir.
Other smaller tributaries include Matrimony Creek, Rock
House Creek, Wolf Island Creek and Hogans Creek.
Approximately three-fourths of this subbasin is forested. By
the year 2020, overall county population is expected to
increase by 8.5 percent and 16 percent in Rockingham and
Caswell counties, respectively. Refer to Appendix I for
more information for population growth and trends.
Several water quality improvement programs have been
implemented in this subbasin. The NC Agriculture Cost
Share Program (NCACSP), which helps reduce agricultural
runoff by helping farmers implement best management
practices, is one of these programs. The NCACSP provided
$118,375 towards implementing sediment and nutrient
reduction practices, and livestock stream access elimination
within this subbasin. For more information on this and other
programs, refer to the watershed discussion throughout this
chapter as well as in Chapters 16 and 20.
Eleven individual NPDES wastewater discharge permits are
issued in this subbasin, four of which are major dischargers.
Refer to Appendix VI for identification and more
information on individual NPDES permit holders. One
registered animal operation is located in this subbasin. Refer
to Chapter 16 for more information regarding animal
operations within this basin.
Subbasin 03-02-03 at a Glance
Land and Water Area
Total area: 340 mi2
Land area: 335 mi2
Water area: 5 mi2
Population Statistics
2000 Est. Pop.: 48,270 people
Pop. Density: 142 persons/mi2
Land Cover (percent)
Forest/Wetland: 74%
Surface Water: 1.2%
Urban: 2.1%
Cultivated Crop: 3.3%
Pasture/
Managed Herbaceous: 19.4%
Counties
Rockingham and Caswell
Municipalities
Eden, Reidsville and
Wentworth
Monitored Stream Statistics
Aquatic Life
Total Streams: 105.1 mi
Total Supporting: 76.1 mi
Total Impaired: 29.0 mi
Recreation
Total Streams: 29.0 mi
Total Impaired: 29.0 mi
A map including the locations of NPDES discharges and water quality monitoring stations is
presented in Figure 6. Table 5 contains a summary of assessment units and lengths, streams
monitored, monitoring data types, locations and results, along with use support ratings for waters
in this subbasin. Refer to Appendix IX for more information about use support ratings.
One benthic macroinvertebrate community sample and five fish community samples (Figure 6
and Table 5) were collected during this assessment period. Data were also collected from four
Chapter 3 – Roanoke River Subbasin 03-02-03 29
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DAN RIVER
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Rock House Creek
Matrimony Creek
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H ogans Creek
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Buffalo Creek
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NC-704
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Figure 6 Roanoke River Subbasin 03-02-03
Division of Water Quality
Basinwide Planning Unit
May 30, 2006
0 2 4 6 81
Miles
^
Legend
Subbasin Boundary
Primary Roads
Municipality
County Boundary
Aqutic Life Use Support Rating
Impaired
No Data
Not Rated
Supporting
")Benthic Community
[¡Fish Community
po Ambient Monitoring Station
Lake Monitoring Station
NPDES Dischargers
XW Major
#*Minor
AU Number
Description
Length/AreaClassification
AL Rating REC RatingStation
Year/
ParameterResult % Exc
Aquatic Life Assessment
ResultStation
Recreation Assessment
Stressors Sources
ROANOKE 03-02-03SubbasinTable 5
DAN RIVER
22-(31.5)b
From 03-02-02 boundary to a point 0.8 mile downstream of
Matrimony Creek
9.4 FW MilesWS-IV I INA3 CE Turbidity 16.4 NA3 CE Fecal Coliform Bacteria Unknown
Turbidity Unknown
22-(38.5)
From a point 0.8 mile downstream of Matrimony Creek to
Mill Branch (Town of Eden water supply intake)
0.6 FW MilesWS-IV;CA I INA6 CE Turbidity 17.5 NA6 CE Turbidity Unknown
Fecal Coliform Bacteria Unknown
DAN RIVER (North Carolina portion)
22-(39)a
From Mill Branch to NC/VA crossing downstream of Wolf
Island Creek
13.8 FW MilesC I INA6 CE Turbidity 17.5 NA6 CE Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Turbidity
Hogans Creek
22-50
From source to Dan River
29.1 FW MilesC S ND
NF15 /2004G
Jones Creek (Lake Wade)
22-50-3
From source to Hogans Creek
7.6 FW MilesC S ND
NF16 /2004G
Matrimony Creek (North Carolina portion)
22-38
From source to Dan River
11.2 FW MilesWS-IV S ND
NF17 /2004G
Rock House Creek
22-34-(2)
From Rockingham Countly SR 2381 to Dan River
6.5 FW MilesWS-IV S ND
NB36 /2001GF
NF18 /2004G
Habitat Degradation
ROANOKE Subbasin 03-02-03Friday, April 07, 2006 10:48:14 AMDRAFT
AU Number
Description
Length/AreaClassification
AL Rating REC RatingStation
Year/
ParameterResult % Exc
Aquatic Life Assessment
ResultStation
Recreation Assessment
Stressors Sources
ROANOKE 03-02-03SubbasinTable 5
Smith River
22-40-(1)
From North Carolina-Virginia State Line to a point 0.8 mile
downstream of Rockingham County SR 1714 (Aiken Road)
2.8 FW MilesWS-IV I INA4 CE Turbidity 12.5
NA5 ID
NA4 NCE
NA5 CE
Turbidity Unknown
Fecal Coliform Bacteria Unknown
Habitat Degradation Impervious Surface
22-40-(2.5)
From a point 0.8 mile downstream of Rockingham County
SR 1714 (Aiken Road) to Fieldcrest Mills Water Supply
Intake
0.5 FW MilesWS-IV;CA I INA4 CE Turbidity 12.5
NA5 ID
NA4 NCE
NA5 CE
Turbidity Unknown
Fecal Coliform Bacteria Unknown
Habitat Degradation Impervious Surface
22-40-(3)
From Fieldcrest Mills Water Supply Intake to Dan River
1.8 FW MilesC I INA4 CE Turbidity 12.5
NA5 ID
NA4 NCE
NA5 CE
Turbidity Unknown
Fecal Coliform Bacteria Unknown
Habitat Degradation Impervious Surface
Wolf Island Creek
22-48
From source to Dan River
21.8 FW MilesC S ND
NF20 /2004G
ROANOKE Subbasin 03-02-03Friday, April 07, 2006 10:48:14 AMDRAFT
AU Number
Description
Length/AreaClassification
AL Rating REC RatingStation
Year/
ParameterResult % Exc
Aquatic Life Assessment
ResultStation
Recreation Assessment
Stressors Sources
ROANOKE 03-02-03SubbasinTable 5
Use Categories:Monitoring data type: Use Support Ratings 2005:
AL - Aquatic Life NF - Fish Community Survey E - Excellent S - Supporting, I - Impaired
REC - Recreation NB - Benthic Community Survey G - Good NR - Not Rated
NA - Ambient Monitoring Site GF - Good-Fair NR*- Not Rated for Recreation (screening criteria exceeded)
NL- Lake Monitoring F - Fair ND-No Data Collected to make assessment
P - Poor
NI - Not Impaired
Miles/Acres m- Monitored N- Natural
FW- Fresh Water e- Evaluated M - Moderate CE-Criteria Exceeded > 10% and more than 10 samples
S-Severe NCE-No Criteria Exceeded
ID- Insufficeint Data Available
Results:
Results
Aquatic Life Rating Summary
S 76.1 FW Milesm
I 29.0 FW Milesm
NR 11.1 FW Milese
ND 133.9 FW Miles
Recreation Rating Summary
29.0 FW MilesIm
11.1 FW MilesNR e
210.0 FW MilesND
Fish Consumption Rating Summary
250.0 FW MilesIe
ROANOKE Subbasin 03-02-03Friday, April 07, 2006 10:48:15 AMDRAFT
ambient monitoring stations. Refer to the 2005 Roanoke River Basinwide Assessment Report at
http://www.esb.enr.state.nc.us/bar.html and Appendix IV for more information on monitoring data.
Waters in the following sections are identified by assessment unit number(s) (AU#). This
number is used to track defined segments in the water quality assessment database, 303(d)
Impaired waters list and the various tables in this basin plan. The assessment unit number is a
subset of the DWQ index number (classification identification number). A letter attached to the
end of the AU# indicates that the assessment is smaller than the DWQ index segment. No letter
indicates that the assessment unit and the DWQ index segments are the same.
3.2 Use Support Assessment Summary
Use support ratings were assigned for waters in subbasin 03-02-03 in the aquatic life, recreation,
fish consumption and water supply categories. All waters are Impaired on an evaluated basis in
the fish consumption category because of fish consumption advice that applies to the entire
basin. In the water supply category, all waters are Supporting on an evaluated basis based on
reports from DEH regional water treatment plant consultants.
There were 102.7 stream miles (41.1 percent) monitored during this assessment period in the
aquatic life category. In the recreation category, 26.6 stream miles (10.6 percent) were
monitored. A total of 26.6 stream miles (10.6 percent) are Impaired, for both the aquatic life and
recreational use categories. Refer to Table 5 for a summary of use support ratings by use
category for waters in subbasin 03-02-03.
3.3 Status and Recommendations of Previously and Newly Impaired
Waters
The following waters were either identified as Impaired in the previous basin plan (2001) or are
newly Impaired based on recent data. If previously identified as Impaired, the water will either
remain on the state’s 303(d) list or will be delisted based on recent data showing water quality
improvements. If the water is newly Impaired, it will likely be placed on the 2008 303(d) list.
The current status and recommendations for addressing these waters are presented below, and
each are identified by an assessment unit number (AU#). Information regarding 303(d) listing
and reporting methodology is presented in Appendix VII.
3.3.1 Dan River [AU# 22-(31.5)b]
2001 Recommendations
The Dan River, from a point 0.7 miles upstream of Jacobs Creek to Mill Branch (14.8 miles;
includes both 22-(31.5)a & b), was Impaired for aquatic life due to a turbidity standard violation
at site NA3 (N2300000). The site exceeded the standard in 18 percent of samples. The 2001
basin plan recommended that DWQ work with the Division of Land Resources to evaluate and
reduce turbidity from permitted instream mining operations in the Dan River. As permits are
renewed, monitoring upstream and downstream of mining operations and instream BMPs (such
as those used by the NC Department of Transportation during bridge construction) could be
required. In addition, DWQ will notify local agencies of water quality concerns regarding these
34 Chapter 3 – Roanoke River Subbasin 03-02-03
waters and work with them to conduct further monitoring and to locate sources of water quality
protection funding.
Current Status
The Dan River [AU#22-(31.5)b], from the 03-02-02 boundary to a point 0.8 miles downstream
of Matrimony Creek (9.4 miles), is Impaired for aquatic life due to turbidity standard violation at
site NA3. The turbidity standard was violated in 16.4 percent of samples in this assessment
period. This segment will remain on the 303(d) list (category 4a; for more information on 303(d)
listing and reporting, see appendix VII). DWQ developed a TMDL for turbidity for this section
of the Dan River. The TMDL was finalized by the USEPA on January 11, 2005 and
recommended that a 59 percent total suspended solids reduction distributed over both point and
nonpoint sources should be achieved in order to meet the turbidity standard. Since the 2001
basin plan, several instream mining operations have become inactive and permits have been
rescinded to the Division of Land Resources mostly due to permit modifications of required
upstream and downstream monitoring.
This section of the Dan River is also Impaired for recreation because the fecal coliform bacteria
standard was exceeded at site NA3. Intensive fecal coliform bacteria monitoring in 2004 was
also part of supporting an interstate TMDL with Virginia since the Dan River is 303(d) listed in
Virginia for bacteria. This section will be added to North Carolina’s 303(d) list for fecal
coliform bacteria.
2006 Recommendations
Local agencies are encouraged to secure funding opportunities for restoration projects to control
nonpoint sources of pollution.
See Chapter 4, section 4.3.1 for Dan River summary.
3.3.2 Dan River [AU # 22-(38.5) & 22-(39)a]
Current Status
The Dan River (North Carolina portion) [AU#22-(38.5)], from a point 0.8 miles downstream of
Matrimony Creek to Mill Branch (Town of Eden water supply intake) (0.6 miles), and [AU# 22-
(39)a] from Mill Branch to NC/VA crossing downstream of Wolf Island Creek (13.8 miles), is
Impaired for aquatic life due to turbidity standard violation at site NA6. The turbidity standard
was violated in 17.5 percent of samples in this assessment period. This segment will be added to
the 303(d) list of impaired waters.
This section of the Dan River is also Impaired for recreation because the fecal coliform bacteria
standard was exceeded at site NA6. Intensive fecal coliform bacteria monitoring in 2004 was
also part of supporting an interstate TMDL with Virginia since the Dan River is 303(d) listed in
Virginia for fecal coliform bacteria. This segment will be added to North Carolina’s 303(d) list
for fecal coliform bacteria.
2006 Recommendations
DWQ will continue to monitor the Dan River. Local agencies are encouraged to secure funding
opportunities for restoration projects to control nonpoint sources of pollution.
Chapter 3 – Roanoke River Subbasin 03-02-03 35
See Chapter 4, section 4.3.1 for Dan River summary.
3.3.3 Smith River [AU # 22-40-(1), 22-40-(2.5) & 22-40-(3)]
2001 Recommendations
The 2001 basin plan recommended that DWQ work with the NC Division of Water Resources,
the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VADEQ) and the Town of Martinsville,
Virginia to address flow fluctuation issues. However, nonpoint source pollution in the North
Carolina portion of the watershed may also contribute to degradation of habitat and water quality
downstream. It is imperative that, in addition to citizen and municipality lead actions in
Virginia, citizens and municipalities in North Carolina implement best management practices as
well. Of particular concern are urban areas and construction activities in and around Eden.
Current Status
Smith River, from North Carolina-Virginia State Line to the Dan River (5.1 miles) is Impaired
for aquatic life because 12.5 percent of the samples taken at site NA4 exceeded the turbidity
standard.
This same section of the Smith River is Impaired for recreation due to fecal coliform bacteria
standard violation at site NA5. Intensive fecal coliform bacteria monitoring in 2004 was also
part of supporting an interstate TMDL with Virginia since the Dan River is 303(d) listed in
Virginia for bacteria.
The entire North Carolina segment of the Smith River will be added to North Carolina’s 303(d)
list for fecal coliform bacteria and turbidity standard violations. This section is already on the
303(d) list for impaired biological integrity due to a Fair benthic rating in 1999.
The Eden WWTP has experienced significant inflow and infiltration problems during this
assessment period. As of January 2004, Eden was under a Special Order of Consent for their
collection system and upgrading including resizing pump stations. Eden is starting a four million
dollar sewer line rehabilitation project, which will be followed up with an anticipated two
million dollar sewer pump station upgrade.
The Philpott Reservoir located on the Smith River approximately 33 miles from the Virginia-
North Carolina State line is owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE).
The minimum flow out of Philpott dam is 59 cubic feet per second (cfs) and can reach maximum
flow releases of 1,400 cfs during power generation operation. In 2003, the ACOE proposed to
conduct a reconnaissance study under Section 216 of the Flood Control Act of 1970.
Unfortunately funds were cut in federal fiscal year 2005 and the study was not funded. The
study would have begun to identify the needs and opportunities for improvements to the Philpott
Dam and Reservoir. From Philpott Reservoir the river flows to the Martinsville Reservoir near
Martinsville, Virginia. The Martinsville Reservoir (Smith River) is a small hydropower
operation with minimal holding capacity. This hydropower is exempt from obtaining a Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission license because they generate less than five megawatts of power
(VADEQ, B. LaRoche pers. comm.).
36 Chapter 3 – Roanoke River Subbasin 03-02-03
2006 Recommendations
DWQ will continue to monitor the Smith River and work with the town of Eden on discharge
requirements. It is also recommended that VADEQ and NCDWQ support future ACOE studies,
including a Section 216 study for Philpott Reservoir and Dam.
3.4 Status and Recommendations for Waters with Noted Impacts
The surface waters discussed in this section are not Impaired. However, notable water quality
problems and concerns were documented for these waters during this assessment. Attention and
resources should be focused on these waters to prevent additional degradation and facilitate
water quality improvements. DWQ will notify local agencies of these water quality concerns
and work with them to conduct further assessments and to locate sources of water quality
protection funding. Additionally, education on local water quality issues and voluntary actions
are useful tools to prevent water quality problems and to promote restoration efforts. Nonpoint
source program agency contacts are listed in Appendix VIII.
3.4.1 Hogans Creek [AU #22-50]
Current Status
Hogans Creek, from source to Dan River (29.1 miles) is Supporting aquatic life due to a Good
fish community bioclassification at site NF15.
Water Quality Initiative
In 1997, the Caswell County Soil and Water Conservation District and the Wetlands Restoration
Program conducted a stream restoration project on an unnamed tributary of Hogans Creek.
Approximately, 900 feet of stream was restored to 1,800 feet. DWQ conducted pre and post
stream project data collections in 1996 and 1998. Since then, beavers have populated the
restored area. Due to the lack of flow, primarily from beaver ponding activity, DWQ was not
able to sample for post mitigation comparison in 2004.
2006 Recommendations
DWQ does not have a state standard regarding beaver activities on streams. Best management
practices do exist to reduce ponding activities.
3.4.2 Rock House Creek [AU#22-34-(2)]
Current Status and 2006 Recommendations
Rock House Creek, from Rockingham County SR 2381 to Dan River (6.5 miles) is Supporting
aquatic life due to Good fish community and Good-Fair benthic community bioclassifications at
sites NF18 and NB36. Most of the land use is predominantly agriculture and during sampling it
was noted that the stream exhibited substantial nonpoint source erosion impacts such as
sedimentation and riparian bank instability problems. Also, nonpoint nutrients from upstream
sources may have contributed to the abundance of the bluehead chub; 37 percent of all the fish
collected were this species. It is recommended that local agencies work with landowners to
assess the need for and prioritize the installation of BMPs to improve the riparian zones and
restore the streambanks along this creek.
Chapter 3 – Roanoke River Subbasin 03-02-03 37
3.5 Additional Water Quality Issues within Subbasin 03-02-03
The following section discusses issues that may threaten water quality in the subbasin that are
not specific to particular streams, lakes or reservoirs. The issues discussed may be related to
waters near certain land use activities or within proximity to different pollution sources.
3.5.1 Land Clearing Activities
Most of the terrain is hilly in this subbasin. Therefore sedimentation problems are more intense
during land clearing and grading activities. Sediment when not properly controlled by BMPs
frequently cause excessive damage to the aquatic ecosystems. As land is converted from forest
or agriculture to residential developments, the proper enforcement and oversight of BMPs is
necessary for avoiding water quality impacts and impairments.
38 Chapter 3 – Roanoke River Subbasin 03-02-03