Water Quality Control Policy For Regional Toxic Hot Spot Cleanup Plans.pdf

Regional Toxic Hot Spot Cleanup Plans

This 1998 policy, adopted by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), provides guidelines for developing regional cleanup plans targeting "toxic hot spots" – areas with high concentrations of toxic substances in water bodies.

Key Points:

- Purpose: The policy aims to implement requirements under California's Water Code Section 13390 et seq. for identifying and remediating these contaminated sites.
- Scope: It applies to both the SWRCB and Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCBs) responsible for developing regional and consolidated statewide plans.
- Hot Spot Definition: A "toxic hot spot" is defined as an area where:
- Contaminant levels exceed state or federal water quality standards.
- There's a potential for significant adverse effects on human health, aquatic life, or wildlife.
- Policy Components:

- Prevention: Emphasizes minimizing toxic substance use and discharge to prevent hot spot formation. Includes strategies like source control, best management practices, and alternative substances.
- Identification: Outlines procedures for identifying potential hot spots using data from various sources (e.g., monitoring programs, citizen reports).
- Assessment: Details the process of evaluating identified sites based on contaminant types, concentrations, and ecological impacts.
- Cleanup: Provides guidance on developing cleanup plans tailored to each hot spot's specific needs, considering feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental protection.
- Collaboration: Encourages collaboration with state agencies like the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) and the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment during all stages of plan development.
- Approval Process: The policy requires SWRCB approval before implementation, with input from the public through hearings.