WSR 24-17-048
PERMANENT RULES
DEPARTMENT OF ECOLOGY
[Order 22-04—Filed August 14, 2024, 7:56 a.m., effective September 14, 2024]
Effective Date of Rule: Thirty-one days after filing.
Purpose: The Washington state department of ecology (ecology) is adopting amendments to chapter 173-201A WAC, Water quality standards for surface waters of the state of Washington. We adopted revisions in this rule making to the following: WAC 173-201A-240 Toxic substances, specifically updating aquatic life toxics criteria in Table 240 and footnotes; and minor, nonsubstantive edits to rule language in WAC 173-201A-240 to correct typographical, calculation, and formatting errors, and to cite federal regulations for human health criteria where they apply for Clean Water Act purposes.
We are adopting revisions to aquatic life toxics criteria to provide additional water quality protection for organisms that live in water.
We reviewed all of Washington's current aquatic life toxics criteria to ensure they are consistent with nationally recommended water quality criteria issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). We evaluated the current published science for each of Washington's aquatic life toxic criteria and new aquatic life criteria for toxic substances. We also evaluated information on pollutant protection levels for endangered species in Oregon and Idaho and used that information to develop state-specific protection levels for endangered species and their populations in Washington's waters.
We evaluated current scientific data, methods, and modeling tools to update protection levels necessary for aquatic life in Washington's surface waters. We have also added new toxic substances into the water quality standards that EPA has recommended or that the state of Washington designates as high priority for the protection of aquatic life. In total, we added criteria for 14 new toxic chemicals and updated criteria for 16 toxic chemicals that are currently in our water quality standards.
The lists below show existing criteria that we updated, and new criteria we adopted that were not previously included in Washington's water quality standards for aquatic life toxics.
Revisions to existing criteria in WAC 173-201A-240:
•Aldrin (freshwater and saltwater acute)
•Arsenic (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Cadmium (freshwater acute and chronic and saltwater acute and chronic)
•Chromium III (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Chromium VI (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Copper (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Cyanide (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Dieldrin (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Endrin (freshwater acute and chronic)
•gamma-BHC (freshwater acute)
•Mercury (freshwater acute)
•Nickel (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Pentachlorophenol (freshwater acute and chronic and saltwater chronic)
•Selenium (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Silver (freshwater acute and saltwater acute)
•Zinc (freshwater acute and chronic)
New criteria adopted into WAC 173-201A-240:
•6PPD-quinone (freshwater acute)
•Aluminum (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Acrolein (freshwater acute and chronic)
•Carbaryl (freshwater acute and chronic and saltwater acute)
•Demeton (freshwater and saltwater chronic)
•Diazinon (freshwater acute and chronic and saltwater acute and chronic)
•Guthion (freshwater and saltwater chronic)
•Malathion (freshwater and saltwater chronic)
•Methoxychlor (freshwater and saltwater chronic)
•Mirex (freshwater and saltwater chronic)
•Nonylphenol (freshwater acute and chronic and saltwater acute and chronic)
•PFOS (freshwater acute and chronic and saltwater acute)
•PFOA (freshwater acute and chronic and saltwater acute)
•Silver (freshwater and saltwater chronic)
•Tributyltin (freshwater acute and chronic and saltwater acute and chronic)
Citation of Rules Affected by this Order: Amending chapter 173-201A WAC.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: Water pollution control, chapter 90.48 RCW, provides clear and direct authority to ecology to revise the surface water quality standards, RCW 90.48.035.
Other Authority: 40 C.F.R. 131.20 requires states to periodically review and update the water quality standards.
Adopted under notice filed as WSR 24-07-035 on March 13, 2024.
Changes Other than Editing from Proposed to Adopted Version: Below is a summary of changes to WAC 173-201A-240, organized by toxic substance. For a full description of changes, including a table listing changes to the numeric criteria from the rule proposal to adoption, see the concise explanatory statement available on the rule-making web page, at https://ecology.wa.gov/regulations-permits/laws-rules-rulemaking/rulemaking/wac-173-201a-aquatic-life-toxics-criteria.
Invasive Species: We have decided to include invasive species into the criteria derivation if they have established resident populations in North America. This decision is based on EPA's comment that invasive species should be included because they can serve as a surrogate for native species in North America. The reincorporation of invasive species into criteria derivations has resulted in slight changes to the proposed criteria. We have detailed specific changes to criteria in the sections below.
6PPD-quinone: We integrated methods used in EPA's 6PPD-quinone screening level calculations that utilize time-weighted average median lethal concentrations (LC50s) and incorporated additional scientific studies released since the rule proposal, resulting in an increase (i.e., less stringent) in the 6PPD-quinone criterion.
Aluminum and Copper: We changed the geographical representation of default criteria for freshwater aluminum and copper (acute and chronic) criteria from eastern and western Washington to EPA level II ecoregions. Level II ecoregions represent three geographic areas in Washington state: Western cordillera, marine west coast forest, and cold desert. This better represents the geographical features that contribute to water quality conditions. Our dataset has limited geospatial representation in some EPA level III ecoregions, and we were unable to develop default criteria at a finer scale.
Aluminum: We added a footnote to the freshwater aluminum multiple linear regression (MLR)-based criteria indicating the criteria are based on total recoverable aluminum. We further noted that analytical methods that measure the bioavailable fraction in ambient waters may be utilized when allowed by state and federal regulations (e.g., utilizing a less aggressive initial acid digestion, such as to a pH of approximately 4 or lower). The bioavailable fraction method more accurately reflects toxicity under natural instream conditions.
Arsenic: We changed the saltwater arsenic criteria (acute and chronic) from state-specific criteria to EPA national recommendations for aquatic life. The EPA's recommendations are less stringent than the saltwater arsenic criteria that were proposed during the rule proposal. During the rule proposal, we mistakenly used the 1st percentile of the genus sensitivity distribution for the saltwater arsenic criteria. Our rule strategy indicates that the 1st percentile should only be used when there is a jeopardy determination in another Region 10 state. While the Swinomish Tribe biological evaluation suggests effects from the saltwater arsenic criteria, we believe the data used in the analysis is out-of-date and that more recent data will significantly lower the magnitude of effects described. We encourage EPA and the services to reevaluate saltwater arsenic criteria when able. We did not find any new marine arsenic studies that would effectively lower the arsenic criteria using EPA 1985 guidance.
Chromium III: We changed the proposed freshwater chromium III (acute and chronic) from EPA national recommended values to more stringent state-specific criteria.
Our rule strategy includes evaluating new scientific studies when a Region 10 state received a "likely to adversely affect" ESA determination, which occurred for bull trout in Oregon. Two new toxicity studies have been incorporated into the freshwater acute chromium III criterion, leading to lower acute chromium III criteria compared to EPA recommendations. This subsequently led to a lower freshwater chronic chromium III criterion because the chronic criterion is based on an acute-to-chronic ratio (ACR). A chronic criterion dependent upon an ACR uses the final acute value to derive the criterion. Thus, the chronic criterion is directly linked to any changes to the acute criterion.
Chromium VI: We removed some toxicity studies used in the proposed rule that did not meet data qualifications. This resulted in an increased freshwater chronic chromium VI criterion compared to the rule proposal.
Cyanide: The incorporation of new scientific studies and recalculation of toxicity values to the free cyanide form led to a decrease (i.e., more stringent) in the criterion. This subsequently led to a decrease in the freshwater chronic cyanide criterion because the chronic criterion is based on an ACR. A chronic criterion dependent upon an ACR uses the final acute value to derive the criterion. Thus, the chronic criterion is directly linked to any changes to the acute criterion.
Methoxychlor: We incorrectly reported EPA recommended criteria as 0.3 micrograms per liter (µ/L) for methoxychlor chronic criteria (freshwater and saltwater) in our proposed rule language. EPA recommends 0.03 µ/L. The number was incorrectly reported in the draft rule language, but correctly reported in the technical support document. We have made the correction in our final rule language.
Nickel: We incorporated new scientific studies into the freshwater acute and chronic nickel criteria that were suggested during the public comment period as well as the reincorporation of invasive species studies that were previously removed. The addition of new chronic studies allowed for the use of the eight-family approach for the derivation of the chronic criterion rather than the ACR ratio approach used in the rule proposal. The result is an increased (i.e., less stringent) acute and chronic criteria for nickel.
Pentachlorophenol: The freshwater acute pentachlorophenol criterion was recalculated using genus mean acute values (GMAVs) ranked 2-5, in accordance with EPA 1985 derivation guidelines for aquatic life criteria when there are greater than 59 GMAVs. This led to an increase (i.e., less stringent) in the freshwater acute pentachlorophenol criterion. This subsequently led to a reduced freshwater chronic pentachlorophenol criterion because the chronic criterion is based on ACR. A chronic criterion dependent upon ACR uses the final acute value to derive the criterion. Thus, the chronic criterion is directly linked to any changes to the acute criterion.
Silver: We removed scientific studies that did not meet data qualifications from the freshwater acute silver criterion derivation, resulting in a decrease (i.e., more stringent) in the criterion. This subsequently led to a lower freshwater chronic silver criterion because the chronic criterion is based on ACR. A chronic criterion dependent upon ACR uses the final acute value to derive the criterion. Thus, the chronic criterion is directly linked to any changes to the acute criterion.
We added a new scientific study to the saltwater acute derivation, resulting in an increased (i.e., less stringent) criterion. This subsequently led to a higher saltwater chronic silver criterion because the chronic criterion is based on ACR. A chronic criterion dependent upon ACR uses the final acute value to derive the criterion. Thus, the chronic criterion is directly linked to any changes to the acute criterion.
Zinc: We added scientific studies to the freshwater acute zinc criterion that met data qualifications, resulting in an increase in the criterion (i.e., less stringent). The freshwater acute zinc criterion was also recalculated using GMAVs ranked 2-5, in accordance with EPA 1985 derivation guidelines for aquatic life criteria when there are greater than 59 GMAVs.
The addition of new chronic studies allowed for the chronic zinc criterion to be calculated using the eight-family approach rather than the ACR ratio approach used in the rule proposal. The incorporation of new scientific studies into the freshwater chronic zinc criterion led to a decreased (i.e., more stringent) criterion.
A final cost-benefit analysis is available by contacting Marla Koberstein, Department of Ecology, Water Quality Program, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504, phone 360-628-6376, for Washington relay service or TTY call 711 or 877-833-6341, email swqs@ecy.wa.gov, website https://apps.ecology.wa.gov/publications/SummaryPages/2410033.html.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 1, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 0, Amended 1, Repealed 0; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted at the Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 1, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's own Initiative: New 0, Amended 1, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Date Adopted: August 14, 2024.
Laura Watson
Director
OTS-5054.9
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 20-02-091, filed 12/30/19, effective 1/30/20)
WAC 173-201A-240Toxic substances.
(1) Toxic substances shall not be introduced above natural background levels in waters of the state which have the potential either singularly or cumulatively to adversely affect characteristic water uses, cause acute or chronic toxicity to the most sensitive biota dependent upon those waters, or adversely affect public health, as determined by the department.
(2) The department shall employ or require chemical testing, acute and chronic toxicity testing, and biological assessments, as appropriate, to evaluate compliance with subsection (1) of this section and to ensure that aquatic communities and the existing and designated uses of waters are being fully protected.
(3) USEPA Quality Criteria for Water, 1986, as revised, shall be used in the use and interpretation of the values listed in subsection (5) of this section.
(4) Concentrations of toxic, and other substances with toxic propensities not listed in Table 240 of this section shall be determined in consideration of USEPA Quality Criteria for Water, 1986, and as revised, and other relevant information as appropriate.
(5) The following criteria, found in Table 240, shall be applied to all surface waters of the state of Washington. Values are µg/L for all substances except ammonia and chloride which are mg/L, tissue-based aquatic life criteria for selenium, perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) which are mg/kg, and asbestos which is million fibers/L. The department shall formally adopt any appropriate revised criteria as part of this chapter in accordance with the provisions established in chapter 34.05 RCW, the Administrative Procedure Act. The department shall ensure there are early opportunities for public review and comment on proposals to develop revised criteria.
(a) Aquatic life protection. The department may revise the criteria in Table 240 for aquatic life on a statewide or water body-specific basis as needed to protect aquatic life occurring in waters of the state and to increase the technical accuracy of the criteria being applied. The department shall formally adopt any appropriate revised criteria as part of this chapter in accordance with the provisions established in chapter 34.05 RCW, the Administrative Procedure Act.
(b) Human health protection. The following provisions apply to the human health criteria in Table 240. All waters shall maintain a level of water quality when entering downstream waters that provides for the attainment and maintenance of the water quality standards of those downstream waters, including the waters of another state. The human health criteria in the tables were calculated using a fish consumption rate of 175 g/day. Criteria for carcinogenic substances were calculated using a cancer risk level equal to one-in-one-million, or as otherwise specified in this chapter. The human health criteria calculations and variables include chronic durations of exposure up to ((seventy))70 years. All human health criteria for metals are for total metal concentrations, unless otherwise noted. Dischargers have the obligation to reduce toxics in discharges through the use of AKART.
Table 240
Toxics Substances Criteria
((Compound/Chemical
Chemical Abstracts Service
(CAS)#
Category
Aquatic Life
Criteria - Freshwater
Aquatic Life Criteria - 
Marine Water
Human Health Criteria
for Consumption of:
Acute
Chronic
Acute
Chronic
Water & Organisms
Organisms Only
Metals:
Antimony
7440360
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
-
-
-
-
12
180
Arsenic
7440382
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
360.0
(c,dd)
190.0
(d,dd)
69.0
(c,ll,dd)
36.0
(d,cc,ll,dd)
10
(A)
10
(A)
Asbestos
1332214
Toxic pollutants and
hazardous substances
-
-
-
-
7,000,000
fibers/L (C)
-
Beryllium
7440417
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
-
-
-
-
-
-
Cadmium
7440439
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
(i,c,dd)
(j,d,dd)
42.0
(c,dd)
9.3
(d,dd)
-
-
Chromium (III)
16065831
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
(m,c,gg)
(n,d,gg)
-
-
-
-
Chromium (VI)
18540299
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
15.0
(c,l,ii,dd)
10.0
(d,jj,dd)
1,100.0
(c,l,ll,dd)
50.0
(d,ll,dd)
-
-
Copper
7440508
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
(o,c,dd)
(p,d,dd)
4.8
(c,ll,dd)
3.1
(d,ll,dd)
1,300
(C)
-
Lead
7439921
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
(q,c,dd)
(r,d,dd)
210.0
(c,ll,dd)
8.1
(d,ll,dd)
-
-
Mercury
7439976
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
2.1
(c,kk,dd)
0.012
(d,ff,s)
1.8
(c,ll,dd)
0.025
(d,ff,s)
(G)
(G)
Methylmercury
22967926
Nonconventional
-
-
-
-
-
-
Nickel
7440020
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
(t,c,dd)
(u,d,dd)
74.0
(c,ll,dd)
8.2
(d,ll,dd)
150
190
Selenium
7782492
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
20.0
(c,ff)
5.0
(d,ff)
290
(c,ll,dd)
71.0
(d,x,ll,dd)
120
480
Silver
7440224
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
(y,a,dd)
-
1.9
(a,ll,dd)
-
-
-
Thallium
7440280
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
-
-
-
-
0.24
0.27
Zinc
7440666
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
(aa,c,dd)
(bb,d,dd)
90.0
(c,ll,dd)
81.0
(d,ll,dd)
2,300
2,900
Other chemicals:
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
71556
Volatile
-
-
-
-
47,000
160,000
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane
79345
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.12
(B)
0.46
(B)
1,1,2-Trichloroethane
79005
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.44
(B)
1.8
(B)
1,1-Dichloroethane
75343
Volatile
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,1-Dichloroethylene
75354
Volatile
-
-
-
-
1200
4100
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene
120821
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.12
(B)
0.14
(B)
1,2-Dichlorobenzene
95501
Volatile
-
-
-
-
2000
2500
1,2-Dichloroethane
107062
Volatile
-
-
-
-
9.3
(B)
120
(B)
1,2-Dichloropropane
78875
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.71
(B)
3.1
(B)
1,3-Dichloropropene
542756
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.24
(B)
2
(B)
1,2-Diphenylhydrazine
122667
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.015
(B)
0.023
(B)
1,2-Trans-Dichloroethylene
156605
Volatile
-
-
-
-
600
5,800
1,3-Dichlorobenzene
541731
Volatile
-
-
-
-
13
16
1,4-Dichlorobenzene
106467
Volatile
-
-
-
-
460
580
2,3,7,8-TCDD (Dioxin)
1746016
Dioxin
-
-
-
-
0.000000064
0.000000064
2,4,6-Trichlorophenol
88062
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
0.25
(B)
0.28
(B)
2,4-Dichlorophenol
120832
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
25
34
2,4-Dimethylphenol
105679
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
85
97
2,4-Dinitrophenol
51285
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
60
610
2,4-Dinitrotoluene
121142
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.039
(B)
0.18
(B)
2,6-Dinitrotoluene
606202
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
2-Chloroethyvinyl Ether
110758
Volatile
-
-
-
-
-
-
2-Chloronaphthalene
91587
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
170
180
2-Chlorophenol
95578
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
15
17
2-Methyl-4,6-Dinitrophenol
(4,6-dinitro-o-cresol)
534521
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
7.1
25
2-Nitrophenol
88755
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,3'-Dichlorobenzidine
91941
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.0031
(B)
0.0033
(B)
3-Methyl-4-Chlorophenol (parachlorometa cresol)
59507
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
36
36
4,4'-DDD
72548
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
0.000036
(B)
0.000036
(B)
4,4'-DDE
72559
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
0.000051
(B)
0.000051
(B)
4,4'-DDT
50293
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
0.000025
(B)
0.000025
(B)
4,4'-DDT(and metabolites)
 
Pesticides/PCBs
1.1
(a)
0.001
(b)
0.13
(a)
0.001
(b)
-
-
4-Bromophenyl
Phenyl Ether
101553
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
4-Chorophenyl Phenyl Ether
7005723
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
4-Nitrophenol
100027
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Acenaphthene
83329
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
110
110
Acenaphthylene
208968
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Acrolein
107028
Volatile
-
-
-
-
1.0
1.1
Acrylonitrile
107131
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.019
(B)
0.028
(B)
Aldrin
309002
Pesticides/PCBs
2.5
(a,e)
0.0019
(b,e)
0.71
(a,e)
0.0019
(b,e)
0.0000057
(B)
0.0000058
(B)
alpha-BHC
319846
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
0.0005
(B)
0.00056
(B)
alpha-Endosulfan
959988
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
9.7
10
Anthracene
120127
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
3,100
4,600
Benzene
71432
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.44
(B)
1.6
(B)
Benzidine
92875
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.00002
(B)
0.000023
(B)
Benzo(a) Anthracene
56553
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.014
(B)
0.021
(B)
Benzo(a) Pyrene
50328
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.0014
(B)
0.0021
(B)
Benzo(b) Fluoranthene
205992
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.014
(B)
0.021
(B)
Benzo(hi) Propylene
191242
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Benzo(k) Fluoranthene
207089
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.014
(B)
0.21
(B)
beta-THC
319857
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
0.0018
(B)
0.002
(B)
alpha-Endosulfan
33213659
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
9.7
10
Bis(2-Chloroethoxy)
Methane
111911
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Bis(2-Chloroethyl) Ether
111444
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.02
(B)
0.06
(B)
Bis(2-Chloroisopropyl)
Ether
39638329
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate
117817
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.23
(B)
0.25
(B)
Bromoform
75252
Volatile
-
-
-
-
5.8
(B)
27
(B)
Butylbenzyl Phthalate
85687
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.56
(B)
0.58
(B)
Carbon Tetrachloride
56235
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.2
(B)
0.35
(B)
Chlordane
57749
Pesticides/PCBs
2.4
(a)
0.0043
(b)
0.09
(a)
0.004
(b)
0.000093
(B)
0.000093
(B)
Chlorobenzene
108907
Volatile
-
-
-
-
380
890
Chlorodibromomethane
124481
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.65
(B)
3
(B)
Chloroethane
75003
Volatile
-
-
-
-
-
-
Chloroform
67663
Volatile
-
-
-
-
260
1200
Chrysene
218019
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
1.4
(B)
2.1
(B)
Cyanide
57125
Metals, cyanide,
and total phenols
22.0
(c,ee)
5.2
(d,ee)
1.0
(c,mm,ee)
(d,mm,ee)
19
(D)
270
(D)
delta-BHC
319868
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
-
-
Dibenzo(a,h) Anthracene
53703
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.0014
(B)
0.0021
(B)
Dichlorobromomethane
75274
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.77
(B)
3.6
(B)
Dieldrin
60571
Pesticides/PCBs
2.5
(a,e)
0.0019
(b,e)
0.71
(a,e)
0.0019
(b,e)
0.0000061
(B)
0.0000061
(B)
Diethyl Phthalate
84662
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
4,200
5,000
Dimethyl Phthalate
131113
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
92,000
130,000
Di-n-Butyl Phthalate
84742
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
450
510
Di-n-Octyl Phthalate
117840
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Endosulfan
 
Pesticides/PCBs
0.22
(a)
0.056
(b)
0.034
(a)
0.0087
(b)
-
-
Endosulfan Sulfate
1031078
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
9.7
10
Endrin
72208
Pesticides/PCBs
0.18
(a)
0.0023
(b)
0.037
(a)
0.0023
(b)
0.034
0.035
Endrin Aldehyde
7421934
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
0.034
0.035
Ethylbenzene
100414
Volatile
-
-
-
-
200
270
Fluoranthene
206440
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
16
16
Fluorene
86737
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
420
610
Hexachlorocyclohexane
(gamma-BHC; Lindane)
58899
Pesticides/PCBs
2.0
(a)
0.08
(b)
0.16
(a)
-
15
17
Heptachlor
76448
Pesticides/PCBs
0.52
(a)
0.0038
(b)
0.053
(a)
0.0036
(b)
0.0000099
(B)
0.00001
(B)
Heptachlor Epoxide
1024573
Pesticides/PCBs
-
-
-
-
0.0000074
(B)
0.0000074
(B)
Hexachlorobenzene
118741
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.000051
(B)
0.000052
(B)
Hexachlorobutadiene
87683
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.69
(B)
4.1
(B)
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
77474
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
150
630
Hexachloroethane
67721
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.11
(B)
0.13
(B)
Indeno(1,2,3-cd) Pyrene
193395
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.014
(B)
0.021
(B)
Isophorone
78591
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
27
(B)
110
(B)
Methyl Bromide
74839
Volatile
-
-
-
-
520
2,400
Methyl Chloride
74873
Volatile
-
-
-
-
-
-
Methylene Chloride
75092
Volatile
-
-
-
-
16
(B)
250
(B)
Napthalene
91203
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Nitrobenzene
98953
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
55
320
N-Nitrosodimethylamine
62759
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.00065
(B)
0.34
(B)
N-Nitrosodi-n-Propylamine
621647
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.0044
(B)
0.058
(B)
N-Nitrosodiphenylamine
86306
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
0.62
(B)
0.69
(B)
Pentachlorophenol (PCP)
87865
Acid compounds
(w,c)
(v,d)
13.0
(c)
7.9
(d)
0.046
(B)
0.1
(B)
Phenanthrene
85018
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
-
-
Phenol
108952
Acid compounds
-
-
-
-
18,000
200,000
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
 
Pesticides/PCBs
2.0
(b)
0.014
(b)
10.0
(b)
0.030
(b)
0.00017
(E)
0.00017
(E)
Pyrene
129000
Base/neutral compounds
-
-
-
-
310
460
Tetrachloroethylene
127184
Volatile
-
-
-
-
4.9
(B)
7.1
(B)
Toluene
108883
Volatile
-
-
-
-
180
410
Toxaphene
8001352
Pesticides/PCBs
0.73
(c,z)
0.0002
(d)
0.21
(c,z)
0.0002
(d)
0.000032
(B)
0.000032
(B)
Trichloroethylene
79016
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.38
(B)
0.86
(B)
Vinyl Chloride
75014
Volatile
-
-
-
-
0.02
(B, F)
0.26
(B, F)
Ammonia (hh)
 
Nonconventional
(f,c)
(g,d)
0.233
(h,c)
0.035
(h,d)
-
-
Chloride (dissolved) (k)
 
Nonconventional
860.0
(h,c)
230.0
(h,d)
-
-
-
-
Chlorine (total residual)
 
Nonconventional
19.0
(c)
11.0
(d)
13.0
(c)
7.5
(d)
-
-
Chlorpyrifos
 
Toxic pollutants and
hazardous substances
0.083
(c)
0.041
(d)
0.011
(c)
0.0056
(d)
-
-
Parathion
 
Toxic pollutants and
hazardous substances
0.065
(c)
0.013
(d)
-
-
-
-
Footnotes for aquatic life criteria in Table 240:
a.
An instantaneous concentration not to be exceeded at any time.
b.
A 24-hour average not to be exceeded.
c.
A 1-hour average concentration not to be exceeded more than once every three years on the average.
d.
A 4-day average concentration not to be exceeded more than once every three years on the average.
e.
Aldrin is metabolically converted to Dieldrin. Therefore, the sum of the Aldrin and Dieldrin concentrations are compared with the Dieldrin criteria.
f.
Shall not exceed the numerical value in total ammonia nitrogen (mg N/L) given by:
For salmonids present:
0.275
+
39.0
 
1 + 107.204-pH
1 + 10pH-7.204
 
 
 
 
For salmonids absent:
0.411
+
58.4
 
1 + 107.204-pH
1 + 10pH-7.204
g.
Shall not exceed the numerical concentration calculated as follows:
 
Unionized ammonia concentration for waters where salmonid habitat is an existing or designated use:
 
0.80 ÷ (FT)(FPH)(RATIO)
where:
 
RATIO
=
13.5; 7.7 ≤ pH ≤ 9
 
 
RATIO
=
(20.25 x 10(7.7-pH)) ÷ (1 + 10(7.4-pH)); 6.5 ≤ pH ≤ 7.7
 
FT
=
1.4; 15 ≤ T ≤ 30
 
FT
=
10[0.03(20-T)]; 0 ≤ T ≤ 15
 
FPH
=
1; 8 ≤ pH ≤ 9
 
FPH
=
(1 + 10(7.4-pH)) ÷ 1.25; 6.5 ≤ pH ≤ 8.0
Total ammonia concentrations for waters where salmonid habitat is not an existing or designated use and other fish early life stages are absent:
 
where: A
=
the greater of either T (temperature in degrees Celsius) or 7.
Applied as a thirty-day average concentration of total ammonia nitrogen (in mg N/L) not to be exceeded more than once every three years on average. The highest four-day average within the thirty-day period should not exceed 2.5 times the chronic criterion.
Total ammonia concentration for waters where salmonid habitat is not an existing or designated use and other fish early life stages are present:
 
where: B
=
the lower of either 2.85, or 1.45 x 100.028 x (25-T). T = temperature in degrees Celsius.
 
Applied as a thirty-day average concentration of total ammonia nitrogen (in mg N/L) not to be exceeded more than once every three years on the average. The highest four-day average within the thirty-day period should not exceed 2.5 times the chronic criterion.
h.
Measured in milligrams per liter rather than micrograms per liter.
i.
≤ (0.944)(e(1.128[ln(hardness)]-3.828)) at hardness = 100. Conversion factor (CF) of 0.944 is hardness dependent. CF is calculated for other hardnesses as follows: CF = 1.136672 - [(ln hardness)(0.041838)].
j.
≤ (0.909)(e(0.7852[ln(hardness)]-3.490)) at hardness = 100. Conversions factor (CF) of 0.909 is hardness dependent. CF is calculated for other hardnesses as follows: CF = 1.101672 - [(ln hardness)(0.041838)].
k.
Criterion based on dissolved chloride in association with sodium. This criterion probably will not be adequately protective when the chloride is associated with potassium, calcium, or magnesium, rather than sodium.
l.
Salinity dependent effects. At low salinity the 1-hour average may not be sufficiently protective.
m.
≤ (0.316)(e(0.8190[ ln(hardness)] + 3.688))
n.
≤ (0.860)(e(0.8190[ ln(hardness)] + 1.561))
o.
≤ (0.960)(e(0.9422[ ln(hardness)] - 1.464))
p.
≤ (0.960)(e(0.8545[ ln(hardness)] - 1.465))
q.
≤ (0.791)(e(1.273[ ln(hardness)] - 1.460)) at hardness = 100. Conversion factor (CF) of 0.791 is hardness dependent. CF is calculated for other hardnesses as follows: CF = 1.46203 - [(ln hardness)(0.145712)].
r.
≤ (0.791)(e(1.273[ ln(hardness)] -  4.705)) at hardness = 100. Conversion factor (CF) of 0.791 is hardness dependent. CF is calculated for other hardnesses as follows: CF = 1.46203 - [(ln hardness)(0.145712)].
s.
If the four-day average chronic concentration is exceeded more than once in a three-year period, the edible portion of the consumed species should be analyzed. Said edible tissue concentrations shall not be allowed to exceed 1.0 mg/kg of methylmercury.
t.
≤ (0.998)(e(0.8460[ ln(hardness)] + 3.3612))
u.
≤ (0.997)(e(0.8460[ ln(hardness)] + 1.1645))
v.
≤ e[1.005(pH) - 5.290]
w.
≤ e[1.005(pH) - 4.830]
x.
The status of the fish community should be monitored whenever the concentration of selenium exceeds 5.0 ug/ l in salt water.
y.
≤ (0.85)(e(1.72[ln(hardness)] - 6.52))
z.
Channel Catfish may be more acutely sensitive.
aa.
≤ (0.978)(e(0.8473[ln(hardness)] + 0.8604))
bb.
≤ (0.986)(e(0.8473[ln(hardness)] + 0.7614))
cc.
Nonlethal effects (growth, C-14 uptake, and chlorophyll production) to diatoms (Thalassiosira aestivalis and Skeletonema costatum) which are common to Washington's waters have been noted at levels below the established criteria. The importance of these effects to the diatom populations and the aquatic system is sufficiently in question to persuade the state to adopt the USEPA National Criteria value (36 µg/L) as the state threshold criteria, however, wherever practical the ambient concentrations should not be allowed to exceed a chronic marine concentration of 21 µg/L.
dd.
These ambient criteria in the table are for the dissolved fraction. The cyanide criteria are based on the weak acid dissociable method. The metals criteria may not be used to calculate total recoverable effluent limits unless the seasonal partitioning of the dissolved to total metals in the ambient water are known. When this information is absent, these metals criteria shall be applied as total recoverable values, determined by back-calculation, using the conversion factors incorporated in the criterion equations. Metals criteria may be adjusted on a site-specific basis when data are made available to the department clearly demonstrating the effective use of the water effects ratio approach established by USEPA, as generally guided by the procedures in USEPA Water Quality Standards Handbook, December 1983, as supplemented or replaced by USEPA or ecology. The adjusted site specific criteria are not in effect until they have been incorporated into this chapter and approved by EPA. Information which is used to develop effluent limits based on applying metals partitioning studies or the water effects ratio approach shall be identified in the permit fact sheet developed pursuant to WAC 173-220-060 or 173-226-110, as appropriate, and shall be made available for the public comment period required pursuant to WAC 173-220-050 or 173-226-130(3), as appropriate. Ecology has developed supplemental guidance for conducting water effect ratio studies.
ee.
The criteria for cyanide is based on the weak acid dissociable method in the 19th Ed. Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 4500-CN I, and as revised (see footnote dd, above).
ff.
These criteria are based on the total-recoverable fraction of the metal.
gg.
Where methods to measure trivalent chromium are unavailable, these criteria are to be represented by total-recoverable chromium.
hh.
The listed fresh water criteria are based on un-ionized or total ammonia concentrations, while those for marine water are based on un-ionized ammonia concentrations. Tables for the conversion of total ammonia to un-ionized ammonia for freshwater can be found in the USEPA's Quality Criteria for Water, 1986. Criteria concentrations based on total ammonia for marine water can be found in USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia (Saltwater)-1989, EPA440/5-88-004, April 1989.
ii.
The conversion factor used to calculate the dissolved metal concentration was 0.982.
jj.
The conversion factor used to calculate the dissolved metal concentration was 0.962.
kk.
The conversion factor used to calculate the dissolved metal concentration was 0.85.
ll.
Marine conversion factors (CF) which were used for calculating dissolved metals concentrations are given below. Conversion factors are applicable to both acute and chronic criteria for all metals except mercury. The CF for mercury was applied to the acute criterion only and is not applicable to the chronic criterion. Conversion factors are already incorporated into the criteria in the table. Dissolved criterion = criterion x CF
 
Metal
CF
 
Arsenic
1.000
 
 
Cadmium
0.994
 
 
Chromium (VI)
0.993
 
 
Copper
0.83
 
 
Lead
0.951
 
 
Mercury
0.85
 
 
Nickel
0.990
 
 
Selenium
0.998
 
 
Silver
0.85
 
 
Zinc
0.946
 
mm.
The cyanide criteria are: 2.8µg/l chronic and 9.1µg/l acute and are applicable only to waters which are east of a line from Point Roberts to Lawrence Point, to Green Point to Deception Pass; and south from Deception Pass and of a line from Partridge Point to Point Wilson. The chronic criterion applicable to the remainder of the marine waters is l µg/L.))
Compound/Chemical
Chemical Abstracts Service
(CAS)#
Aquatic Life
Criteria - Freshwater
Aquatic Life Criteria - 
Marine Water
Human Health Criteria
for Consumption of:
Acute
Chronic
Acute
Chronic
Water & Organisms
Organisms Only
Metals:
Aluminum
7429905
Western Cordillera: 288
Marine West Coast
Forest: 630
Cold Desert: 1400
(a,e)
Western Cordillera: 180
Marine West Coast
Forest: 302
Cold Desert: 720
(b,e)
-
-
-
-
Antimony
7440360
-
-
-
-
12
(H)
180
(H)
Arsenic
7440382
300
(a,f)
130
(b,f)
69
(a,f,g)
36
(b,f,g)
10
(A,H)
10
(A,H)
Asbestos
1332214
-
-
-
-
7,000,000
fibers/L (C)
-
Beryllium
7440417
-
-
-
-
-
-
Cadmium
7440439
(a,f,h)
(b,f,i)
33
(a,f)
7.9
(b,f)
-
-
Chromium (III)
16065831
(a,j,k)
(b,j,l)
-
-
-
-
Chromium (VI)
18540299
18
(a,f,m)
6.6
(b,f,n)
1,100.0
(a,f,g)
50.0
(b,f,g)
-
-
Copper
7440508
Western Cordillera: 1.4
Marine West Coast
Forest: 2.4
Cold Desert: 4.8
(a,f,o)
Western Cordillera: 1.2
Marine West Coast
Forest: 1.8
Cold Desert: 3.2
(b,f,p)
4.8
(a,f,g)
3.1
(b,f,g)
1,300
(C)
-
Lead
7439921
(a,f,q)
(b,f,r)
210.0
(a,f,g)
8.1
(b,f,g)
-
-
Mercury
7439976
1.4
(a,f,s)
0.012
(b,t,u)
1.8
(a,f,g)
0.025
(b,t,u)
(G)
(G)
Methylmercury
22967926
-
-
-
-
-
-
(H)
Nickel
7440020
(a,f,v)
(b,f,w)
74.0
(a,f,g)
8.2
(b,f,g)
150
(H)
190
(H)
Selenium
7782492
(x)
(y)
290
(a,f,g)
71.0
(b,f,g)
120
(H)
480
(H)
Silver
7440224
(a,f,z)
(b,f,aa)
2.3
(a,f,g)
0.91
(b,f,g)
-
-
Thallium
7440280
-
-
-
-
0.24
0.27
Zinc
7440666
(a,f,bb)
(b,f,cc)
90.0
(a,f,g)
81.0
(b,f,g)
2,300
(H)
2,900
(H)
Other chemicals:
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
71556
-
-
-
-
47,000
(H)
160,000
(H)
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane
79345
-
-
-
-
0.12
(B,H)
0.46
(B,H)
1,1,2-Trichloroethane
79005
-
-
-
-
0.44
(B,H)
1.8
(B,H)
1,1-Dichloroethane
75343
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,1-Dichloroethylene
75354
-
-
-
-
1200
(H)
4100
(H)
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene
120821
-
-
-
-
0.12
(B,H)
0.14
(B,H)
1,2-Dichlorobenzene
95501
-
-
-
-
2000
(H)
2500
(H)
1,2-Dichloroethane
107062
-
-
-
-
9.3
(B,H)
120
(B,H)
1,2-Dichloropropane
78875
-
-
-
-
0.71
(B)
3.1
(B)
1,3-Dichloropropene
542756
-
-
-
-
0.24
(B)
2
(B)
1,2-Diphenylhydrazine
122667
-
-
-
-
0.015
(B,H)
0.023
(B,H)
1,2-Trans-Dichloroethylene
156605
-
-
-
-
600
(H)
5,800
(H)
1,3-Dichlorobenzene
541731
-
-
-
-
13
(H)
16
(H)
1,4-Dichlorobenzene
106467
-
-
-
-
460
(H)
580
(H)
2,3,7,8-TCDD (Dioxin)
1746016
-
-
-
-
0.000000064
0.000000064
2,4,6-Trichlorophenol
88062
-
-
-
-
0.25
(B)
0.28
(B)
2,4-Dichlorophenol
120832
-
-
-
-
25
(H)
34
(H)
2,4-Dimethylphenol
105679
-
-
-
-
85
97
2,4-Dinitrophenol
51285
-
-
-
-
60
(H)
610
(H)
2,4-Dinitrotoluene
121142
-
-
-
-
0.039
(B)
0.18
(B)
2,6-Dinitrotoluene
606202
-
-
-
-
-
-
2-Chloroethyvinyl Ether
110758
-
-
-
-
-
-
2-Chloronaphthalene
91587
-
-
-
-
170
(H)
180
(H)
2-Chlorophenol
95578
-
-
-
-
15
17
2-Methyl-4,6-Dinitrophenol
(4,6-dinitro-o-cresol)
534521
-
-
-
-
7.1
(H)
25
(H)
2-Nitrophenol
88755
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,3'-Dichlorobenzidine
91941
-
-
-
-
0.0031
(B)
0.0033
(B)
3-Methyl-4-Chlorophenol (parachlorometa cresol)
59507
-
-
-
-
36
36
4,4'-DDD
72548
-
-
-
-
0.000036
(B,H)
0.000036
(B,H)
4,4'-DDE
72559
-
-
-
-
0.000051
(B,H)
0.000051
(B,H)
4,4'-DDT
50293
-
-
-
-
0.000025
(B,H)
0.000025
(B,H)
4,4'-DDT (and metabolites)
50293
1.1
(c)
0.001
(d)
0.13
(c)
0.001
(d)
-
-
4-Bromophenyl
Phenyl Ether
101553
-
-
-
-
-
-
4-Chorophenyl Phenyl Ether
7005723
-
-
-
-
-
-
4-Nitrophenol
100027
-
-
-
-
-
-
Acenaphthene
83329
-
-
-
-
110
(H)
110
(H)
Acenaphthylene
208968
-
-
-
-
-
-
Acrolein
107028
3
(a)
3
(b)
-
-
1.0
1.1
Acrylonitrile
107131
-
-
-
-
0.019
(B)
0.028
(B)
Aldrin
309002
3
(c,dd)
0.0019
(d,dd)
1.3
(c,e)
0.0019
(d,dd)
0.0000057
(B,H)
0.0000058
(B,H)
alpha-BHC
319846
-
-
-
-
0.0005
(B,H)
0.00056
(B,H)
alpha-Endosulfan
959988
0.22
(c,ee)
0.056
(d,ee)
0.034
(c,ee)
0.0087
(d,ee)
9.7
(H)
10
(H)
Ammonia
7664417
(a,ff,ii)
(b,gg,ii)
0.233
(a,hh,ii)
0.035
(b,hh,ii)
-
-
Anthracene
120127
-
-
-
-
3,100
(H)
4,600
(H)
Benzene
71432
-
-
-
-
0.44
(B)
1.6
(B)
Benzidine
92875
-
-
-
-
0.00002
(B)
0.000023
(B)
Benzo(a) Anthracene
56553
-
-
-
-
0.014
(B,H)
0.021
(B,H)
Benzo(a) Pyrene
50328
-
-
-
-
0.0014
(B,H)
0.0021
(B,H)
Benzo(b) Fluoranthene
205992
-
-
-
-
0.014
(B,H)
0.021
(B,H)
Benzo(ghi) Perylene
191242
-
-
-
-
-
-
Benzo(k) Fluoranthene
207089
-
-
-
-
0.014
(B,H)
0.21
(B,H)
beta-BHC
319857
-
-
-
-
0.0018
(B,H)
0.002
(B,H)
beta-Endosulfan
33213659
0.22
(c,ee)
0.056
(d,ee)
0.034
(c,ee)
0.0087
(d,ee)
9.7
10
Bis(2-Chloroethoxy)
Methane
111911
-
-
-
-
-
-
Bis(2-Chloroethyl) Ether
111444
-
-
-
-
0.02
(B)
0.06
(B)
Bis(2-Chloroisopropyl)
Ether
39638329
-
-
-
-
-
(H)
-
(H)
Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate
117817
-
-
-
-
0.23
(B,H)
0.25
(B,H)
Bromoform
75252
-
-
-
-
5.8
(B,H)
27
(B,H)
Butylbenzyl Phthalate
85687
-
-
-
-
0.56
(B,H)
0.58
(B,H)
Carbaryl
63252
2.1
(a)
2.1
(b)
1.6
(a)
-
-
-
Carbon Tetrachloride
56235
-
-
-
-
0.2
(B)
0.35
(B)
Chlordane
57749
2.4
(c)
0.0043
(d)
0.09
(c)
0.004
(d)
0.000093
(B,H)
0.000093
(B,H)
Chloride (dissolved)
168870
860
(a,hh,jj)
230
(b,hh,jj)
-
-
-
-
Chlorine (total residual)
7782505
19
(a)
11
(b)
13
(a)
7.5
(b)
-
-
Chlorobenzene
108907
-
-
-
-
380
(H)
890
(H)
Chlorodibromomethane
124481
-
-
-
-
0.65
(B,H)
3
(B,H)
Chloroethane
75003
-
-
-
-
-
-
Chloroform
67663
-
-
-
-
260
(H)
1200
(H)
Chlorpyrifos
2921882
0.083
(a)
0.041
(b)
0.011
(a)
0.0056
(b)
-
-
Chrysene
218019
-
-
-
-
1.4
(B,H)
2.1
(B,H)
Cyanide
57125
8.2
(a,kk)
1.9
(b,kk)
1.0
(a,kk,ll)
1.0
(b,kk,ll)
19
(D,H)
270
(D,H)
delta-BHC
319868
-
-
-
-
-
-
Demeton
8065483
-
0.1
(b)
-
0.1
(b)
-
-
Diazinon
333415
0.17
(a)
0.17
(b)
0.82
(a)
0.82
(b)
-
-
Dibenzo(a,h) Anthracene
53703
-
-
-
-
0.0014
(B,H)
0.0021
(B,H)
Dichlorobromomethane
75274
-
-
-
-
0.77
(B,H)
3.6
(B,H)
Dieldrin
60571
0.24
(a,dd)
0.056
(b,dd)
0.71
(c,dd)
0.0019
(d,dd)
0.0000061
(B,H)
0.0000061
(B,H)
Diethyl Phthalate
84662
-
-
-
-
4,200
(H)
5,000
(H)
Dimethyl Phthalate
131113
-
-
-
-
92,000
(H)
130,000
(H)
Di-n-Butyl Phthalate
84742
-
-
-
-
450
(H)
510
(H)
Di-n-Octyl Phthalate
117840
-
-
-
-
-
-
Endosulfan Sulfate
1031078
-
-
-
-
9.7
(H)
10
Endrin
72208
0.086
(a)
0.036
(b)
0.037
(c)
0.0023
(d)
0.034
(H)
0.035
(H)
Endrin Aldehyde
7421934
-
-
-
-
0.034
0.035
Ethylbenzene
100414
-
-
-
-
200
(H)
270
(H)
Fluoranthene
206440
-
-
-
-
16
(H)
16
(H)
Fluorene
86737
-
-
-
-
420
(H)
610
(H)
Guthion
86500
-
0.01
(b)
-
0.01
(b)
-
-
Hexachlorocyclohexane
(gamma-BHC; Lindane)
58899
0.95
(a)
0.08
(d)
0.16
(c)
-
15
(H)
17
(H)
Heptachlor
76448
0.52
(c)
0.0038
(d)
0.053
(c)
0.0036
(d)
0.0000099
(B,H)
0.00001
(B,H)
Heptachlor Epoxide
1024573
-
-
-
-
0.0000074
(B,H)
0.0000074
(B,H)
Hexachlorobenzene
118741
-
-
-
-
0.000051
(B,H)
0.000052
(B,H)
Hexachlorobutadiene
87683
-
-
-
-
0.69
(B,H)
4.1
(B,H)
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
77474
-
-
-
-
150
(H)
630
(H)
Hexachloroethane
67721
-
-
-
-
0.11
(B,H)
0.13
(B,H)
Indeno(1,2,3-cd) Pyrene
193395
-
-
-
-
0.014
(B,H)
0.021
(B,H)
Isophorone
78591
-
-
-
-
27
(B)
110
(B)
Malathion
121755
-
0.1
(b)
-
0.1
(b)
-
-
Methoxychlor
72435
-
0.03
(b)
-
0.03
(b)
-
-
Methyl Bromide
74839
-
-
-
-
520
(H)
2,400
Methyl Chloride
74873
-
-
-
-
-
-
Methylene Chloride
75092
-
-
-
-
16
(B,H)
250
(B,H)
Mirex
2385855
-
0.001
(b)
-
0.001
(b)
-
-
N-(1,3-Dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine-quinone(6PPD-q)
 
0.012
(a)
-
-
-
-
-
Napthalene
91203
-
-
-
-
-
-
Nitrobenzene
98953
-
-
-
-
55
(H)
320
(H)
N-Nitrosodimethylamine
62759
-
-
-
-
0.00065
(B)
0.34
(B)
N-Nitrosodi-n-Propylamine
621647
-
-
-
-
0.0044
(B)
0.058
(B)
N-Nitrosodiphenylamine
86306
-
-
-
-
0.62
(B)
0.69
(B)
Nonylphenol
84852153
28
(a)
6.6
(b)
7
(a)
1.7
(b)
-
-
Parathion
56382
0.065
(a)
0.013
(b)
-
-
-
-
Pentachlorophenol (PCP)
87865
(a,mm)
(b,nn)
13
(a)
6.7
(b)
0.046
(B,H)
0.1
(B,H)
Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS)
 
3000
(a)
(oo)
550
(a)
-
-
-
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
 
49000
(a)
(pp)
7000
(a)
-
-
-
Phenanthrene
85018
-
-
-
-
-
-
Phenol
108952
-
-
-
-
18,000
(H)
200,000
(H)
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
 
2.0
(d)
0.014
(d)
10.0
(d)
0.03
(d)
0.00017
(E,H)
0.00017
(E,H)
Pyrene
129000
-
-
-
-
310
(H)
460
(H)
Tetrachloroethylene
127184
-
-
-
-
4.9
(B,H)
7.1
(B,H)
Toluene
108883
-
-
-
-
180
(H)
410
(H)
Toxaphene
8001352
0.73
(a)
0.0002
(b)
0.21
(a)
0.0002
(b)
0.000032
(B)
0.000032
(B)
Tributyltin
 
0.46
(a)
0.072
(b)
0.42
(a)
0.0074
(b)
-
-
Trichloroethylene
79016
-
-
-
-
0.38
(B,H)
0.86
(B,H)
Vinyl Chloride
75014
-
-
-
-
0.02
(B,F)
0.26
(B,F,H)
Footnotes for aquatic life criteria in Table 240:
a.
A 1-hour average concentration not to be exceeded more than once every three years on the average.
b.
A 4-day average concentration not to be exceeded more than once every three years on average.
c.
An instantaneous concentration not to be exceeded at any time.
d.
A 24-hour average not to be exceeded at any time.
e.
Criteria are calculated using the Aluminum Criteria Calculator V.2.0 that is published in EPA's "Final Aquatic Water Quality Criteria for Aluminum 2018" (EPA-822-R-1-001). Default criteria values were calculated for EPA Level II ecoregions and are applicable in the absence of water body or site-specific water quality data. The freshwater default acute criterion in the Western Cordillera ecoregion is 288 µg/L, 630 µg/L is the default acute criterion in the Marine West Coast Forest ecoregion, and 1400 µg/L is the default acute criterion in the Cold Desert ecoregion. The freshwater default chronic criterion in the Western Cordillera ecoregion is 180 µg/L, 302 µg/L is the default chronic criterion in the Marine West Coast Forest ecoregion, and 720 µg/L is the default chronic criterion in the Cold Desert ecoregion. The default criterion is used in the absence of concurrently sampled pH, hardness, and dissolved organic carbon for a site-specific location or water body. Criteria calculated using concurrently sampled pH, hardness, and dissolved organic carbon for a specific water body supersede the default criteria. The aluminum criteria are based on aluminum toxicity studies where aluminum was analyzed using total recoverable analytical methods. Washington may utilize total recoverable analytical methods to implement the criteria. For characterizing ambient waters, Washington may also utilize, as scientifically appropriate and as allowable by state and federal regulations, analytical methods that measure the bioavailable fraction of aluminum (e.g., utilizing a less aggressive initial acid digestion, such as to a pH of approximately 4 or lower, that includes the measurement of amorphous aluminum hydroxide yet minimizes the measurement of mineralized forms of aluminum such as aluminum silicates associated with suspended sediment particles or clays). Washington shall use measurements of total recoverable aluminum where required by federal regulations.
f.
These ambient criteria in the table are for the dissolved fraction. The cyanide criteria are based on the weak acid dissociable method. The metals criteria may not be used to calculate total recoverable effluent limits unless the seasonal partitioning of the dissolved to total metals in the ambient water are known. When this information is absent, these metals criteria shall be applied as total recoverable values, determined by back-calculation, using the conversion factors incorporated in the criterion equations. Metals criteria may be adjusted on a site-specific basis when data are made available to the department clearly demonstrating the effective use of the water effects ratio approach established by USEPA, as generally guided by the procedures in USEPA Water Quality Standards Handbook, December 1983, as supplemented or replaced by USEPA or ecology. The adjusted site-specific criteria are not in effect until they have been incorporated into this chapter and approved by EPA. Information which is used to develop effluent limits based on applying metals partitioning studies or the water effects ratio approach shall be identified in the permit fact sheet developed pursuant to WAC 173-220-060 or 173-226-110, as appropriate, and shall be made available for the public comment period required pursuant to WAC 173-220-050 or 173-226-130(3), as appropriate. Ecology has developed supplemental guidance for conducting water effect ratio studies.
g.
Marine conversion factors (CF) which were used for calculating dissolved metals concentrations are given below. Conversion factors are applicable to both acute and chronic criteria for all metals except mercury. The CF for mercury was applied to the acute criterion only and is not applicable to the chronic criterion. Conversion factors are already incorporated into the criteria in the table. Dissolved criterion = criterion x CF
 
Metal
CF
 
Arsenic
1.000
 
Cadmium
0.994
 
Chromium (VI)
0.993
 
Copper
0.83
 
Lead
0.951
 
Mercury
0.85
 
Nickel
0.990
 
Selenium
0.998
 
Silver
0.85
 
Zinc
0.946
h.
Acute criterion = (CF)(e(0.9789[ln(hardness)]-4.189)). Conversion factor (CF) is hardness dependent. CF is calculated for other hardnesses as follows: CF = 1.136672 - [(ln hardness)(0.041838)].
i.
Chronic criterion = (CF)(e(0.7977[ln(hardness)]-4.446)). Conversion factor (CF) is hardness dependent. CF is calculated for other hardnesses as follows: CF = 1.101672 - [(ln hardness)(0.041838)].
j.
Where methods to measure trivalent chromium are unavailable, these criteria are to be represented by total-recoverable chromium.
k.
Acute criterion = (0.316)(e(0.8190[ln(hardness)] + 3.533))
l.
Chronic criterion = (0.860)(e(0.8190[ln(hardness)] + 0.4921))
m.
The conversion factor used to calculate the dissolved metal concentration is 0.982.
n.
The conversion factor used to calculate the dissolved metal concentration is 0.962.
o.
The acute criterion is represented by the higher criteria value of the two equations: 1) Acute criterion = e(0.700*ln(DOC) + 0.579*ln(hardness) + 0.778*pH – 6.738) and 2) Acute criterion = e(0.855*ln(DOC) + 0.221*ln(hardness) + 0.216*pH – 1.183). Default criteria values were calculated for EPA Level II ecoregions and are applicable in the absence of water body or site-specific water quality data. The freshwater default acute criterion in the Western Cordillera ecoregion is 1.4 µg/L, 2.4 µg/L is the default acute criterion in the Marine West Coast Forest ecoregion, and 4.8 µg/L is the default acute criterion in the Cold Desert ecoregion. The default criterion is used in the absence of concurrently sampled pH, hardness, and dissolved organic carbon for a site-specific location or water body. Criteria calculated using concurrently sampled pH, hardness, and dissolved organic carbon for a specific water body supersede the default criteria.
p.
Chronic criterion = e(0.855*ln(DOC) + 0.221*ln(hardness) + 0.216*pH – 1.402) . Default criteria values were calculated for EPA Level II ecoregions and are applicable in the absence of water body or site-specific water quality data. The freshwater default chronic criterion in the Western Cordillera ecoregion is 1.2 µg/L, 1.8 µg/L is the default chronic criterion in the Marine West Coast Forest ecoregion, and 3.2 µg/L is the default chronic criterion in the Cold Desert ecoregion. 1.6 µg/L is applicable in western Washington and 1.8 µg/L is the applicable default chronic criterion in eastern Washington. The default criterion is used in the absence of concurrently sampled pH, hardness, and dissolved organic carbon for a site-specific location or water body. Criteria calculated using concurrently sampled pH, hardness, and dissolved organic carbon for a specific water body supersede the default criteria.
q.
Acute criterion = (CF)(e(1.273[ln(hardness)] - 1.460)). Conversion factor (CF) is hardness dependent. CF is calculated for other hardnesses as follows:
CF = 1.46203 - [(ln hardness)(0.145712)].
r.
Chronic criterion = (CF)(e(1.273[ln(hardness)] - 4.705)). Conversion factor (CF) is hardness dependent. CF is calculated for other hardnesses as follows: CF = 1.46203 - [(ln hardness)(0.145712)].
s.
The conversion factor used to calculate the dissolved metal concentration is 0.85.
t.
These criteria are based on the total-recoverable fraction of the metal.
u.
If the four-day average chronic concentration is exceeded more than once in a three-year period, the edible portion of the consumed species should be analyzed. Said edible tissue concentrations shall not be allowed to exceed 1.0 mg/kg of methylmercury.
v.
Acute criterion = (0.998)(e(0.8460[ln(hardness)] + 0.1667))
w.
Chronic criterion = (0.997)(e(0.8460[ln(hardness)] – 1.466))
x.
There is no freshwater acute criterion for aquatic life for selenium. The freshwater chronic criterion is expected to adequately protect against acute effects.
y.
Freshwater chronic selenium criteria:
 
15.1 mg/kg dry weight (egg-ovary tissue)1
 
8.5 mg/kg dry weight (whole-body tissue)2
 
11.3 mg/kg dry weight (muscle tissue)2
 
1.5 µg/L (water lentic)3
 
3.1 µg/L (water lotic)3
 
WQCint = WQC – Cbkgrnd (1 – fint) / fint (water lentic or lotic)3,4
 
1 Egg-ovary supersedes any whole-body, muscle, or water column element when fish egg-ovary concentrations are measured, except as noted in footnote 4. Tissue criterion is not to be exceeded.
 
2 Fish whole-body or muscle tissue supersedes the water column element when both fish tissue and water concentrations are measured, except as noted in footnote 4. Tissue criterion is not to be exceeded.
 
3 Water column values are based on dissolved total selenium in water and are derived from fish tissue values via bioaccumulation modeling. When selenium inputs are increasing, water column values are the applicable criterion element in the absence of steady-state condition fish tissue data. Water column criteria are based on a 30-day average concentrations, except for WQCint (see footnote 4). Water column criteria are not to be exceeded more than once every three years on average.
 
4 Where WQCint is the intermittent exposure concentration in µg/L; WQC is the applicable water column element, for either lentic or lotic waters; Cbkgrnd is the average daily background concentration occurring during the remaining time, integrated over 30 days; fint is the fraction of any 30-day period during which elevated selenium concentrations occur, with fint assigned a value ≥ 0.033 (corresponding to one day). Intermittent exposure criteria averaging period is the number of days per month with an elevated concentration.
z.
Acute criterion = (0.85)(e(1.72[ln(hardness)] – 8.590))
aa.
Chronic criterion = (0.85)(e(1.72[ln(hardness)] – 9.511))
bb.
Acute criterion = (0.978)(e(0.8473[ln(hardness)] + 0.3313))
cc.
Chronic criterion = (0.986)(e(0.8473[ln(hardness)] – 0.6900))
dd.
Aldrin is metabolically converted to Dieldrin. Therefore, the sum of the Aldrin and Dieldrin concentrations are compared with the Dieldrin criteria.
ee.
This value was derived from data for endosulfan. Where concentrations for both alpha-endosulfan and beta-endosulfan are available, the sum of alpha-endosulfan and beta-endosulfan concentrations shall be compared to the criteria.
ff.
Shall not exceed the numerical value in total ammonia nitrogen (mg N/L) given by:
For salmonids present:
0.275
+
39.0
 
1 + 107.204-pH
1 + 10pH-7.204
 
 
 
 
For salmonids absent:
0.411
+
58.4
 
1 + 107.204-pH
1 + 10pH-7.204
gg.
Shall not exceed the numerical concentration calculated as follows:
 
Unionized ammonia concentration for waters where salmonid habitat is an existing or designated use:
 
0.80 ÷ (FT)(FPH)(RATIO)
where:
 
RATIO
=
13.5; 7.7 ≤ pH ≤ 9
 
 
RATIO
=
(20.25 x 10(7.7-pH)) ÷ (1 + 10(7.4-pH)); 6.5 ≤ pH ≤ 7.7
 
FT
=
1.4; 15 ≤ T ≤ 30
 
FT
=
10[0.03(20-T)]; 0 ≤ T ≤ 15
 
FPH
=
1; 8 ≤ pH ≤ 9
 
FPH
=
(1 + 10(7.4-pH)) ÷ 1.25; 6.5 ≤ pH ≤ 8.0
Total ammonia concentrations for waters where salmonid habitat is not an existing or designated use and other fish early life stages are absent:
 
where: A
=
the greater of either T (temperature in degrees Celsius) or 7.
Applied as a 30-day average concentration of total ammonia nitrogen (in mg N/L) not to be exceeded more than once every three years on average. The highest four-day average within the 30-day period should not exceed 2.5 times the chronic criterion.
Total ammonia concentration for waters where salmonid habitat is not an existing or designated use and other fish early life stages are present:
 
where: B
=
the lower of either 2.85, or 1.45 x 100.028 x (25-T). T = temperature in degrees Celsius.
 
Applied as a 30-day average concentration of total ammonia nitrogen (in mg N/L) not to be exceeded more than once every three years on the average. The highest four-day average within the 30-day period should not exceed 2.5 times the chronic criterion.
hh.
Measured in milligrams per liter rather than micrograms per liter.
ii.
The listed freshwater criteria are based on un-ionized or total ammonia concentrations, while those for marine water are based on un-ionized ammonia concentrations. Tables for the conversion of total ammonia to un-ionized ammonia for freshwater can be found in the USEPA's Quality Criteria for Water, 1986. Criteria concentrations based on total ammonia for marine water can be found in USEPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Ammonia (Saltwater)-1989, EPA440/5-88-004, April 1989.
jj.
Criterion based on dissolved chloride in association with sodium. This criterion probably will not be adequately protective when the chloride is associated with potassium, calcium, or magnesium, rather than sodium.
kk.
The criteria for cyanide is based on the weak acid dissociable method in the 19th Ed. Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 4500-CN I, and as revised (see footnote f, above).
ll.
The cyanide criteria are: 2.8 µg/L chronic and 9.1 µg/L acute and are applicable only to waters which are east of a line from Point Roberts to Lawrence Point, to Green Point to Deception Pass; and south from Deception Pass and of a line from Partridge Point to Point Wilson. The chronic criterion applicable to the remainder of the marine waters is l µg/L.
mm.
Acute criterion = e[1.005(pH) – 5.450]
nn.
Chronic criterion = e[1.005(pH) – 6.155]
oo.
Freshwater chronic PFOS criteria:
 
8.4 µg/L (water)1,2
 
0.937 mg/kg ww (invertebrate whole-body)1,3,4
 
6.75 mg/kg ww (fish whole-body)1,3,4
 
2.91 mg/kg ww (fish muscle)1,3,4
 
1 All water column and tissue criteria are intended to be independently applicable for compliance determinations and no one criterion takes primacy.
 
2 Water column criteria are based on a four-day average concentration not to be exceeded more than once every three years on average.
 
3 Tissue criteria derived from the chronic water column concentration with the use of bioaccumulation factors and are expressed as wet weight (ww) concentrations.
 
4 Tissue data is an instantaneous point measurement that reflect integrative accumulation of PFOS over time and space. Criteria are not to be exceeded more than once every 10 years on average.
pp.
Freshwater chronic PFOA criteria:
 
94 µg/L (water)1,2
 
1.11 mg/kg ww (invertebrate whole-body)1,3,4
 
6.10 mg/kg ww (fish whole-body)1,3,4
 
0.125 mg/kg ww (fish muscle)1,3,4
 
1 All water column and tissue criteria are intended to be independently applicable for compliance determinations and no one criterion takes primacy.
 
2 Water column criteria are based on a four-day average concentration not to be exceeded more than once every three years on average.
 
3 Tissue criteria derived from the chronic water column concentration with the use of bioaccumulation factors and are expressed as wet weight (ww) concentrations.
 
4 Tissue data is an instantaneous point measurement that reflect integrative accumulation of PFOS over time and space. Criteria are not to be exceeded more than once every 10 years on average.
Footnotes for human health criteria in Table 240:
A.
This criterion for total arsenic is the maximum contaminant level (MCL) developed under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The MCL for total arsenic is applied to surface waters where consumption of organisms-only and where consumption of water + organisms reflect the designated uses. When the department determines that a direct or indirect industrial discharge to surface waters designated for domestic water supply may be adding arsenic to its wastewater, the department will require the discharger to develop and implement a pollution prevention plan to reduce arsenic through the use of AKART. Industrial wastewater discharges to a privately or publicly owned wastewater treatment facility are considered indirect discharges.
B.
This criterion was calculated based on an additional lifetime cancer risk of one-in-one-million (1 x 10-6 risk level).
C.
This criterion is based on a regulatory level developed under the Safe Drinking Water Act.
D.
This recommended water quality criterion is expressed as total cyanide, even though the integrated risk information system RfD used to derive the criterion is based on free cyanide. The multiple forms of cyanide that are present in ambient water have significant differences in toxicity due to their differing abilities to liberate the CN-moiety. Some complex cyanides require even more extreme conditions than refluxing with sulfuric acid to liberate the CN-moiety. Thus, these complex cyanides are expected to have little or no "bioavailability" to humans. If a substantial fraction of the cyanide present in a water body is present in a complexed form (e.g., Fe4[Fe(CN)6]3), this criterion may be overly conservative.
E.
This criterion applies to total PCBs, (e.g., the sum of all congener or all isomer or homolog or Aroclor analyses). The PCBs criteria were calculated using a chemical-specific risk level of 4 x 10-5. Because that calculation resulted in a higher (less protective) concentration than the current criterion concentration (40 C.F.R. 131.36) the state made a chemical-specific decision to stay at the current criterion concentration.
F.
This criterion was derived using the cancer slope factor of 1.4 (linearized multistage model with a twofold increase to 1.4 per mg/kg-day to account for continuous lifetime exposure from birth).
G.
((The human health criteria for mercury are contained in 40 C.F.R. 131.36.))EPA has removed Washington from the National Toxics Rule at 40 C.F.R. 131.36 for mercury and promulgated new human health criteria for methylmercury in the EPA's final federal rule at 40 C.F.R. 131.45.
H.
Human health criteria applicable for Clean Water Act purposes in the state of Washington are contained in 40 C.F.R. 131.45 and effective as of December 19, 2022 (87 FR 69183).
Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency and appear in the Register pursuant to the requirements of RCW 34.08.040.