Chariton River IA 05-CHA-1307

Assessment Comments

Assessment is based on results of USGS ambient water quality monitoring near Moulton from March to September, 2004.

Basis for Assessment

SUMMARY: The Class B(WW) aquatic life uses are assessed (evaluated) as “fully supporting” based on results of chemical/physical monitoring in 2004.   Fish consumption uses are “not assessed” due to lack of fish contaminant monitoring data upon which to base an assessment.   The source of data for this assessment is the results of USGS chemical/physical water quality monitoring near Moulton from March 2004 through September 2004.  

EXPLANATION:  The Class B(WW) aquatic life uses were assessed (evaluated) as "fully supported" based on results of water quality monitoring by the U.S.  Geological Survey near Moulton in 2004.   No violations of state water quality criteria occurred in the seven samples analyzed for dissolved oxygen, pH, ammonia, chlorpyrifos, DDE, and dieldrin.   Although these results indicate “full support” of the aquatic life uses of this river segment, the number of samples is relatively low and does not meet IDNR guidelines for developing a “monitored” (i.e., higher confidence) assessment.   Thus, the assessment type is considered “evaluated” (lower confidence).

The fish consumption uses are “not assessed” due to the lack of information upon which to base an assessment.