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The Problem:In 1998, 21.1 miles of Pond Creek, 7.2 miles of Mud Creek and 7.3 miles of Greasy Creek were listed on the Tennessee 303(d) list of impaired waters for 'pathogens and nutrients'. The final version of a pathogen TMDL for Watts Bar Watershed, the reservoir into which Pond Creek deposits, cites Escherichia coli as a high priority, and nitrates and physical substrate habitat alteration as medium priorities. The TMDL identifies pollutant sources such as pasture grazing, livestock in stream and animal feeding operations, all classified as nonpoint pollutant sources. For a more complete description of the general water quality status and of the surrounding area, view the Watts Bar TMDL , approved 10/17/2005 and the 2004 303(d) list of TN impaired waters .
An ongoing monthly monitoring survey conducted by UT Extension has resulted in a detailed assessment of pathogens and nutrients for Pond Creek. Utilizing 8 sample sites (see locations in Maps section) monthly grab samples have been collected since July 2001, and analyzed for nitrogen, phosphorus, sediment, fecal matter and E. coli. Data from these samples allowed officials to develop a load duration curve for E.coli levels in the study area, seen below (click to enlarge).
To better visualize the status of land and water issues of Pond Creek, please check out these maps The ChallengeThe ApproachThe Clean-upPlan of Action |
