California Environmental Protection Agency: Department of Pesticide Regulation

Table of Contents

I. OVERVIEW

The California Pesticide Management Plan for Water Quality (Plan) is a joint effort by the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) and the State Water Resources Control Board (State Board) to protect water quality from the potential adverse effects of pesticides. It describes how DPR and the County Agricultural Commissioners (Commissioners) will work in cooperation with the State Board and the Regional Water Quality Control Boards (Regional Boards) to protect water quality from the use of pesticides. The Plan is part of an effort to make state programs addressing pesticides and water quality more understandable, consistent, and efficient.

The Plan contains provisions for outreach programs, compliance with water quality standards, ground and surface water protection programs, self-regulatory and regulatory compliance, interagency communication, and dispute and conflict resolution. The appendices contain a copy of the Management Agency Agreement (MAA) between DPR and the State Board, a list of reduced-risk practices for minimizing the potential for offsite pesticide movement and transport of residues to ground or surface water, information on procedures to protect proprietary information, applicable state and federal laws and regulations, a glossary of terms, and a list of abbreviations used in the Plan. The Plan recognizes both the importance of water quality in the state and the role pesticides play in maintaining a strong economy and protecting public health and safety.

II. INTRODUCTION

Pesticides are substances intended to be used for preventing or controlling pest problems, for defoliating plants, or for regulating plant growth. They are used in a variety of ways that benefit society. Agricultural production, public health and safety programs, structural pest control, ornamental landscapes, and exotic pest control programs all rely to some degree on the availability and use of pesticides.

However, pesticides can also have detrimental effects, including offsite movement to surface water at concentrations that can adversely affect aquatic organisms and human health. Responsible pesticide use maximizes the benefits of use while minimizing the adverse effects that pesticides can cause.

The Food and Agricultural Code (FAC) authorizes DPR to register pesticides for sale and use in the State. The FAC also authorizes DPR and the Commissioners to regulate the sale, storage, handling, and use of pesticides, and states that one of the purposes of the pesticide regulatory program is to protect the environment from environmentally harmful pesticides. The California Water Code (CWC) states that the State and Regional Boards are the principal state agencies with primary responsibility for the coordination and control of activities related to water quality. The result is that the FAC and the CWC provide overlapping authorities for protecting water quality from pesticides. This can lead to duplication of effort, inconsistencies, and confusion for the regulated public.

One of the reasons for the creation of the California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA) was to bring these related regulatory programs into a unified government entity. As member agencies of Cal/EPA, DPR and the State Board signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop a comprehensive, integrated statewide water quality pesticide management program. The principles of this MOU will be fully described and implemented by an MAA signed by DPR and the State Board, and by this Plan. An MAA is an agreement between the State Board and another agency or agencies for managing water quality. The Plan describes how DPR and the Commissioners will work cooperatively with the State and Regional Boards to prevent and respond to pesticide contamination of water. When signed, the MAA will replace the MOU as the operative agreement between the agencies.

The scope of the Plan includes water quality issues related to all pesticides uses. The goal is to provide a coordinated approach to protect water quality. However, the Plan does not specifically deal with pesticide spills and is not intended to abrogate any legal requirements on any person or agency to report such spills.

DPR and the State Board have adopted a four-stage approach to minimize the potential for pesticide movement to ground and surface waters. This is consistent with the State Board's Nonpoint Source Management Plan approach. In Stage 1, prevention of pesticide contamination of ground and surface water is promoted through educational outreach. Stage 2 is initiated following detections of pesticides that require response. This stage relies on self-regulating or cooperative efforts to identify and implement the most appropriate site-specific, reduced-risk practices. Stages 1 or 2 may include self-regulating label changes and implementation of registrant stewardship programs that address water quality issues on a statewide or regional basis. If adequate protection cannot be achieved by Stage 2, DPR and the Commissioners implement Stage 3. In this stage, reduced-risk practices will be implemented by restricted material use permit requirements, regulations, and other regulatory authority used by DPR and the Commissioners. If Stage 4 is necessary, the State and Regional Boards will use water quality control planning programs or other appropriate regulatory measures to protect water quality. These four stages will be implemented, not necessarily in sequential order, as necessary to protect water quality.

Because DPR and the State Board have responsibilities for the protection of water quality, both agencies intend that the Plan will serve as a guide to coordinate interaction, facilitate communication, promote problem-solving, and ultimately assure protection of water quality.

III. OUTREACH

This outreach section represents part of the Plan's four-stage approach to minimize the potential for pesticide movement to ground and surface waters. Stage 1 promotes prevention of pesticide contamination of ground and surface water through education and outreach efforts, some of which are described in this section. These activities will complement efforts from affected industry, researchers, and educators.

A. Education and Training Programs

The objective of the Education and Training Programs of the Plan is to increase awareness among pest control advisers, pest control businesses, growers, farm managers, homeowners, and other pesticide users in agricultural and nonagricultural situations regarding water quality issues and reduced-risk practices so that they can help prevent water quality problems. There are several options that DPR with the cooperation of the State and Regional Boards may pursue to further this objective:

1. Develop a "Train the Trainer" course and reference manual for trainers. There are several similar courses already being given. A new course may not be needed as trainers could attend existing classes that would incorporate and present material relating to water quality protection.

2. Develop a handbook to provide growers information about practices they can adopt that will prevent pollution of ground and surface water.

3. Encourage outreach training programs that would include State and Regional Boards' staff, DPR staff (Environmental Monitoring and Pest Management Branch), or others as speakers at meetings or workshops of influential agricultural organizations. To encourage participation, licensees would earn continuing education credits for license or certificate renewal purposes.

4. Develop a one-page pamphlet summarizing water quality issues, problems, and solutions for growers and land managers in English, Spanish, and other appropriate languages, which can be distributed by Commissioners when they issue restricted materials permits, operator identification numbers, register licensees, or conduct certified applicator training and grower meetings.

5. Develop a one-page fact sheet for the general public that discusses pesticide use and water protection.

6. The Commissioners can provide information and training when they issue restricted material permits, and operator identification numbers, or register structural and agricultural pest control operators, maintenance gardeners, and pest control advisers. This outreach and training would target urban, rural, and agricultural pesticide users. The Commissioners also conduct training sessions, meet with interested citizens, groups, and the regulated community.

B. Public Information Programs

The purpose of the Public Information Programs is to ensure public awareness and coordinate responses to public concerns. The objectives are to:

1. Notify the general public concerning water quality issues through news releases and public service announcements from State and Regional Boards, DPR, and Commissioners.

2. Inform interested parties about upcoming meetings and changes in regulations and policy through trade journals, newsletters, and other professional publications. This information shall be posted in all offices (including districts) which license holders, permit holders, and at other locations stakeholders are known to frequent.

3. Distribute a one-page "fact sheet" designed to inform people about water quality issues and where to get additional information concerning water quality data, watershed planning, and status of ongoing efforts.

4. Distribute information about public meetings, hearings and changes in laws, regulations and policies to interested parties when appropriate.

5. Compile water quality issues, standards, management options, responses to the public, and other information on the Internet Home Page for the State Board and DPR when appropriate.

IV. STATE AND REGIONAL BOARDS' WATER QUALITY PROTECTION PROGRAMS

A. Background

The State Board along with the nine Regional Boards is the principal State agency with regulatory responsibility for coordination and control of water quality. The Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act [(CWC) sections 174 and 13000 et seq.] establishes the requirements to adopt and revise State policy for water quality control (CWC sections 13000 and 13140, et   seq.). Regional Water Quality Control Plans (Basin Plans) must conform to these policies.

Authority for each Regional Board to formulate and adopt Basin Plans and periodically review the plans is provided in section 13240. However, a Basin Plan, or a revision of a Basin Plan, adopted by a Regional Board does not become effective until approved by the State Board (section 13245). In addition, regulatory provisions that are adopted or revised in Basin Plans do not become effective until approved by the Office of Administrative Law. Authority for State Board adoption of Water Quality Control Plans (Statewide Plans, in accordance with provisions outlined in sections 13240 to 13244) for waters that are required by the federal Clean Water Act   (CWA) to have water quality standards is provided in section 13170. Also, Statewide Plans for waters for which standards are required under the CWA supersede regional Basin Plans to the extent of any conflict that may arise (section 13170).

Section 303 of the CWA (which covers water quality standards) requires that a state adopt water quality standards for surface waters, including designated uses of water and criteria to protect those uses. Further, the CWA requires that at least once every three years, the State hold public hearings for the purpose of reviewing applicable water quality standards and modify and adopt these standards, as appropriate. These requirements are also delineated in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), primarily 40 CFR 130 (which covers water quality planning and management) and 40   CFR 131 (which covers water quality standards).

B. Basin Plans

Basin Plans adopted by the Regional Boards identify existing and potential beneficial uses of marine, ground, and surface waters such as domestic water supplies; establish water quality objectives to protect the beneficial uses; describe implementation programs to achieve these objectives; and describe surveillance and monitoring activities to evaluate the effectiveness of the water quality control program (CWC section 13170).

Regional Boards also consider the specific economic, political, demographic, and weather conditions unique to the basin in adopting plans. Background information, such as population and land use projections, may be included as technical appendices to the Basin Plans.

C. Statewide Plans

The State Board adopts Statewide Plans to address water quality concerns for surface waters that overlap Regional Board boundaries, are statewide in scope, or are otherwise considered significant. Statewide Plans are to be reviewed periodically (CWC section 13240), except for the California Ocean Plan (Ocean   Plan), which is to be reviewed at least every three years to guarantee that the current standards are adequate [CWC section 13170.2(b)]. Statewide Plans include the Ocean   Plan and the Thermal Plan. Another State Board-adopted plan is the Bay-Delta Plan. Work is underway to develop a new Inland Surface Waters Plan and Enclosed Bays and Estuaries Plan. Statewide Plans supersede regional Basin Plans where conflicts occur   (CWC   section   13170).

D. Beneficial Uses

The types of beneficial uses of the waters of the State (any water, surface or underground, within the boundaries of the State) that may be protected against quality degradation include, but are not limited to, domestic, municipal, agricultural, and industrial supply; power generation; recreation; esthetic enjoyment; navigation; and preservation and enhancement of fish, wildlife, and other aquatic resources or preserves.

As mentioned above, the CWA (section 303) requires that the State adopt designated beneficial uses for surface waters.

E. Water Quality Objectives

A water quality objective is the limit or level of a water quality constituent or characteristic established for the reasonable protection of beneficial uses of the water or the prevention of a nuisance in a specific area [CWC section 13050(h)]. Thus, the designated beneficial uses to be made of the water result in objectives based upon sound scientific rationale to protect the designated beneficial uses.

Factors to be considered in establishing water quality objectives shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following (CWC section 13241):

1. Past, present, and probable future beneficial uses of water.

2. Environmental characteristics of the hydrographic unit under consideration, including the quality of water available.

3. Water quality conditions that could reasonably be achieved through the coordinated control of all factors that affect water quality in the area.

4. Economic considerations.

5. The need for developing housing within the region.

6. The need to develop and use recycled water.

Water quality objectives can be either numerical values based upon CWA guidance [section   304(a)] or other scientifically defensible methods or narrative objectives with which compliance is evaluated through methods such as biomonitoring or chemical analysis. Water quality objectives must support the most sensitive of the designated beneficial uses   (40   CFR   131.11).

F. Water Quality Standards

The CWA requires states to develop water quality standards for all surface waters. In California, water quality standards are established through the basin planning process. Water quality standards consist of the designated beneficial uses and water quality objectives of the Statewide and Basin Plans. Water quality standards shall protect the public health or welfare, enhance the quality of water, and serve the purposes of the CWA. Such standards must take into consideration the use and value of water for: (1)   public water supplies; (2) the protection

and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife; (3) recreation in and on the water; and (4)   agricultural, industrial, and other purposes including navigation [CWA section 303(c)].

G. Antidegradation Policy

Water quality standards must also conform to federal regulations covering antidegradation (40   CFR Section 131.12) and State Board Resolution No. 68-16, "Statement of Policy with Respect to Maintaining High Quality of Waters in California." Application of the antidegradation provisions to the standard setting process requires supporting documentation and appropriate findings whenever a standard (beneficial use and water quality objective) would allow a reduction in water quality below currently existing water quality or below higher water quality which may have existed since 1968. The federal antidegradation regulation does not absolutely bar reductions in water quality in surface waters. Rather, the regulation requires that reductions in water quality be justified to accommodate important social and economic development as long as instream beneficial uses are not impaired and the water quality of any waters constituting an outstanding national resource is maintained and protected. Under State Board Resolution No. 68-16, which applies to all waters of the State, the State and Regional Boards must adopt findings that show that the change is for the maximum benefit of the people of the State.

H. Implementation

The State and Regional Boards ensure that water quality objectives are achieved through various implementation programs including issuance of waste discharge requirements, monitoring, compliance inspections, and enforcement actions such as issuance of cleanup and abatement orders, cease and desist orders, and administrative civil liability orders.

V. GROUND WATER PROTECTION PROGRAM

In 1985, California enacted the Pesticide Contamination Prevention Act (PCPA) (Division 7, Chapter 2, Article 15, FAC). The purpose of the PCPA is to prevent further pesticide pollution of ground water from legal agricultural use of currently registered pesticides. Pollution as used in this act is defined in section 13142(j) as meaning the introduction into the ground waters of the state of an active ingredient, other specified product, or degradation product of an active ingredient of an economic poison above a level, with an adequate margin of safety, that does not cause adverse health effects. This act has been incorporated into DPR's overall ground water protection program and provides a mechanism for identifying and tracking pesticides with the potential to pollute ground water.

A. Pollution Prevention Program

The PCPA requires DPR to identify pesticidal active ingredients with the potential to pollute ground water by leaching based on their specific chemical and physical properties and specific uses. These chemicals are placed on the Ground Water Protection List in regulation and are monitored by DPR in ground water. The PCPA (FAC section 13149 and 13150) establishes procedures for reviewing and modifying the use of pesticides found in ground water or in soil under certain conditions as a result of legal agricultural use. These use modifications are designed to prevent pesticides from reaching ground water at concentrations that would be considered pollution.

As part of its pollution prevention program, DPR yearly conducts a statewide educational program that is required for those pesticide advisors who write the ground water protection advisories that are required before certain pesticides can be used in designated areas sensitive to ground water pollution by pesticides. It is intended that this program will promote reduced-risk practices in these sensitive areas for users of pesticides on the 6800(a) portion of the Ground Water Protection List. This list contains pesticides that have the potential to pollute ground water based either on their detection in ground water due to agricultural use or on their physical, chemical, and use characteristics.

DPR evaluates the effect of climate, soil type, product formulation, method and rate of application of pesticides, timing and method of irrigation, seasonal timing of application of pesticides, and other factors affecting the movement of the pesticides to ground water. From this evaluation, DPR develops reduced-risk practices to minimize movement of pesticides to ground water. To identify areas sensitive to ground water pollution by pesticides, DPR uses a model based on climate and soil type.

The County Agricultural Commissioners and Sealers Association has accepted a stewardship program for wellhead protection that may be adopted at the discretion of each Commissioner. The program consists of guidelines and management practices to prevent pesticide contamination of ground water from wells. The general guidelines for wellhead protection are:

1. No well should serve as a catchment or receiving basin for surface water runoff containing pesticide residues or be contaminated by back-siphoning during mixing, rinsing, or chemigation.

2. Storage, handling, and disposal of pesticides (including mixing, loading, and cleaning practices) should not occur in the immediate vicinity of a wellhead.

3. Pest control around a wellhead should be achieved, whenever possible, by nonchemical means.

4. Soil-applied pesticides should be avoided when chemical controls must be considered around a wellhead.

The following regulations enable DPR and the Commissioners to better regulate the handling of pesticides to prevent pollution of ground water:

1. 3 CCR section 6610 requires that each service rig and piece of application equipment that handles pesticides and draws water from an outside source shall be equipped with an air-gap separation, reduced pressure principle backflow prevention device, or double check valve assembly. Backflow protection must be acceptable to both the water purveyor and the local health department.

2. 3 CCR section 3142 specifies the proper disposal of legally rinsed pesticide containers.

3. 3 CCR section 3143 specifies the proper disposal of pesticides and unrinsed pesticide containers.

B. Monitoring of Ground Water

Monitoring is an important component of DPR's ground water protection program. DPR conducts four types of ground water monitoring:

1. Ground water protection list monitoring to determine whether pesticides identified as having the potential to pollute ground water have moved to ground water.

2. Four-section monitoring which is the monitoring of other wells in the vicinity of a well containing pesticide residues. This monitoring is conducted to help determine whether a pesticide detected in ground water is due to agricultural use. Four-section monitoring is conducted only when active ingredients, degradation products of active ingredients, and other specified ingredients that have not been reviewed by the subcommittee of the Pesticide Registration and Evaluation Committee (PREC) are detected in ground water, or when chemicals previously reviewed by the subcommittee are detected in areas that are not currently designated as sensitive areas susceptible to ground water pollution by pesticides.

3. Sensitive area monitoring is conducted to help identify areas sensitive to pollution by pesticides.

4. Investigative monitoring is conducted to help identify and understand the factors that affect the movement of pesticides to ground water.

DPR maintains a statewide database of wells sampled for pesticide active ingredients. Data for this database are submitted by other agencies, such as the Regional Boards and the Department of Health Services, as well as by DPR itself.

C. Response to Detections

Within 90 days after an economic poison is found under any of the conditions listed in 1, 2, or 3, DPR is required to determine whether the economic poison resulted from agricultural use in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations, and shall state in writing the reasons for the determination [FAC section 13149].

1. An active ingredient of a pesticide is found at or below specified soil depths.

2. An active ingredient of a pesticide is found in the ground waters of the state.

3. The degradation products or other specified ingredients of a pesticide that pose a threat to public health are found under either conditions (1) or (2).

If DPR verifies a detection and determines that it is the result of a legal agricultural use, DPR is required to immediately notify the registrant of the determination and of the registrant's opportunity to request a hearing [FAC section 13149(b)]. If the registrant requests a hearing, DPR schedules a hearing of a PREC subcommittee of consisting of one member each representing DPR, the Office of Environmental Health and Hazard Assessment, and the State Board. If the registrant does not request the hearing within 30 days after the notice is issued, DPR shall cancel the registration of the economic poison [FAC section 13149(c)]. The subcommittee is authorized to make one of the following findings:

1. That the ingredient found in the soil or ground water has not polluted and does not threaten to pollute, the ground water of the state.

2. That the agricultural use of the pesticide can be modified so that there is a high probability that the pesticide would not pollute the ground water of the state.

3. That the modification or cancellation of the agricultural use of the pesticide would cause a severe economic hardship to the agricultural industry. In this case, the subcommittee recommends a level of the pesticide that does not significantly diminish the margin of safety recognized by the subcommittee to not cause adverse health effects.

The registration for any pesticide identified pursuant to section 13149 which fails to meet any of the conditions of section 13150 shall be canceled.

The Director, within 30 days after the subcommittee issues its findings, may concur with one of the above findings or may determine that no pollution or threat of pollution exists. If the Director concurs with the subcommittee that use can be modified, the pesticide is added to 3   CCR   section 6800 (a).

Detections of pesticides resulting from illegal use or point sources are referred to the Commissioners, Regional Boards, and other appropriate agencies. All detections, regardless of source, are included in the well inventory database and will be brought to the attention of and made available to Commissioners and the State and Regional Boards.

Not withstanding the above-described DPR Ground Water Protection Program, action may be taken at any time through the State or Regional Board water quality control programs or through other appropriate regulatory measures to assure protection of beneficial uses. Such action will include compliance with the State Board's antidegradation policy.

VI. SURFACE WATER PROTECTION PROGRAM

A. Prevention

1. Public Outreach

DPR and the State and Regional Boards recognize that public outreach is important in preventing water quality problems associated with pesticides. Management practices advocated in such outreach programs are preventive; their use should be encouraged as Stage 1 activities, even when impairment of water quality from pesticides has not been demonstrated. A discussion of outreach efforts is presented in Section III.

2. Pesticide Evaluation and Registration

State law requires DPR to thoroughly evaluate and register pesticides before they are sold or used in California. During the evaluation and registration process, DPR evaluates potential water quality problems associated with specific uses of pesticides, including use on sites where pesticides are likely to move with runoff or irrigation tailwater into surface waterways. DPR gives special attention to the potential for toxicity to the aquatic biota and to factors that may interfere with attaining water quality objectives. If DPR determines that such uses will likely result in significant adverse impacts that cannot be avoided or adequately mitigated, registration is not granted unless the Director indicates otherwise, as provided in 3 CCR section 6158.

DPR notifies the State Board and other members of the PREC of pesticides that are under review for registration.

3. Surveillance Monitoring

Surveillance monitoring is used to help identify potential problems before direct evidence of impairment of water quality is available. DPR and the State Board, in consultation with the Regional Boards and Commissioners, will develop sampling protocols for monitoring sites with the highest potential for the presence of pesticides. Sites will be selected based on activities and natural characteristics within the watershed including, but not limited to, pesticide use and application methods, crop production characteristics, and irrigation and rainfall patterns. Biotoxicity monitoring, toxicity identification evaluations, and chemical analyses will be performed using protocols (e.g., American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), U.S. EPA) and other methods approved by DPR and the State Board. DPR and the State Board will monitor these sites as resources allow. Data from surveillance monitoring activities will be evaluated as described below.

B. Submission of Monitoring Data

DPR will describe the desired format for submissions of pesticide detections. Analytical data contained in such submissions should include the following:

1. Sampling party

2. Date of sample

3. Location of sampling site (including latitude and longitude if available)

4. Method of collection

5. Chemical analyzed

6. Analytical method

7. Dates of extraction and analysis

8. Limits of quantitation

9. Individual sample concentration and

10. Quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) statement

If biotoxicity monitoring data are included with such submissions, the data will be assessed using procedures approved by DPR and the State Board.

DPR, Commissioners, and the State and Regional Boards will exchange information on monitoring and QA/QC procedures and lists of laboratories currently used for analyzing pesticides in water. DPR will accept for consideration all data indicating the presence of pesticides in surface water. DPR, Commissioners, and the State and Regional Boards will share such data on at least a quarterly basis. A computerized database for surface water monitoring data is being developed by DPR.

C. Evaluation of Monitoring Data

1. Determination of Valid Data

DPR will evaluate monitoring data and determine their validity based on completeness and quality. If deficiencies are noted, DPR will notify the reporting party and request upgrading if possible.

2. Primary Evaluation of Valid Data

If detections are determined to be valid, DPR may request additional available data, including negative detections of the pesticide and results of biotoxicity monitoring, from the reporting party. DPR will identify potential sources of the pesticide by reviewing DPR's Pesticide Use Database and conferring with Commissioners. DPR will compare concentrations reported with valid detections to toxicological characteristics of the pesticide and to federal water quality standards, and established numerical water quality objectives, or if none are applicable, to other appropriate values such as water quality control plan performance goals or Quantitative Response Limits (QRLs) (see   section   D.3.a.) or federal water quality criteria if available. DPR will then transmit findings to the State and Regional Boards and appropriate Commissioners immediately for review. The PREC will be briefed as needed.

3. Secondary Evaluation of Valid Data

(a) Motivation

DPR will evaluate conditions associated with multiple valid detections when:

(1) Concentrations are greater than federal water quality standards, established numerical water quality objectives, or if none are applicable, then other appropriate values such as water quality control plan performance goals, QRLs, or federal water quality criteria if available.

(2) Toxicity monitoring indicates that toxicity is present and associated with the detected pesticide or pesticides.

(3) Toxic concentrations of the pesticide or pesticides are regularly detected or detected at several locations. This process is the secondary evaluation of data.

(b) Evaluation of Field Characteristics

During secondary evaluations, additional information will be prepared that addresses the pesticide, its use, and monitoring. DPR and Commissioners will determine whether the presence of the pesticide in surface water was the result of legal use. If the detections were the result of legal use, DPR may request additional available data from appropriate parties including negative detections of the pesticide and results from biotoxicity monitoring. Additionally, DPR will evaluate the environmental fate and behavior of the pesticide and will further evaluate the environmental risks indicated by the monitoring data. DPR may collaborate with the pesticide's registrants and pesticide user groups to develop additional information on sources, fate and behavior, potential management options, and other relevant factors.

DPR will provide secondary evaluations to the State and Regional Boards and to Commissioners for review. DPR will periodically report to the PREC on activities relating to secondary evaluations.

D. Response

1. Detections Resulting from Illegal Use

DPR will refer detections determined to be from illegal uses to Commissioners and may provide technical and legal assistance to properly penalize responsible parties. The State and Regional Boards will be notified of these detections.

2. Detections Resulting from Legal Use

After secondary evaluations conclude that detections of pesticides are the result of legal use of the pesticide, DPR may solicit participation of local interested parties in an advisory group. Advisory groups help identify issues, goals, mitigation options, and monitoring requirements. If the pesticides are detected in more than one region, more than one advisory group may be appropriate. Membership in advisory groups will include DPR and appropriate Regional Boards and Commissioners; other members will represent industry interests and public agencies as appropriate.

3. Mitigation

Management strategies for protecting surface water from pesticide problems may be included in four stages (as described previously), arranged in order of regulatory severity: Stage 1--outreach and education (preventive), Stage 2--self-regulating (response), Stage 3--regulatory (DPR and Commissioners), and Stage 4--regulatory (State and Regional Boards). Stages 2, 3, and 4 are used to mitigate pesticide problems in surface water after secondary evaluations conclude that detections of pesticides are the result of legal use of the pesticide. These three stages and a procedure for developing interim water quality goals for Stage 2 and Stage 3 activities (QRLs) are described below. Stage   2 and stage 3 activities will not be delayed while QRLs are developed.

Quantitative Response Limits (QRLs) are numerical values used during Stage 2 and Stage 3 activities to help determine whether pesticide concentrations are in conformity with narrative water quality objectives in the absence of numerical objectives. QRLs are not intended of themselves to be enforceable standards but rather may be used as measures of success for mitigation efforts.

DPR will develop QRLs after repeated valid detections of pesticides for which there are no numerical objectives in surface water. The number of detections, water bodies affected, identity and concentrations of the pesticides, and recommendations of the State and Regional Boards will be considered when determining QRLs.

QRLs are developed after a review of the following:

a. U.S. EPA health advisories, federal and California Maximum Contaminant Levels, and other levels established to help protect human health.

b. Water quality criteria for protecting aquatic species.

c. Biotoxicity monitoring data.

d. Other relevant toxicological data.

QRLs will be reviewed at least once every three years and updated toxicological information will be considered. Adjustments to the QRLs will be made as necessary. If federal water quality standards or numerical water quality objectives are established, such standards or objectives will replace the QRLs as measures of success for mitigation efforts.

When developing QRLs and when QRLs are adjusted, DPR will seek concurrence from the State and Regional Boards and will consult with other appropriate agencies. Additional information will be sought from the public at workshops. The State and Regional Boards and the PREC will be notified of changes in status of QRLs.

(a) Stage 2--Self-Regulation

Sponsors will be sought to direct local self-regulating implementation of control options identified by the advisory group. Sponsors may include, but are not limited to, local commodity groups, Resource Conservation Districts, pesticide registrants, and pesticide users participating in stewardship programs. Sponsors will submit to DPR for approval a draft plan that includes the following elements:

(1) A review of the use of the pesticide in relation to current pest management practices.

(2) Consideration of reduced use of the pesticide.

(3) Other management practices to be used for mitigation.

(4) Economic consideration of management options.

(5) Selection of management practices to be used in the mitigation effort.

(6) A timetable for implementation. Timetables are not to exceed four years; two one-year extensions are possible.

(7) Measures of success. Ultimately measures of success shall be conformity with applicable federal water quality standards and water quality objectives. Interim measures such as water quality control plan performance goals, QRLs, federal water quality criteria if available or reasonable progress toward complying with federal water quality standards or water quality objectives may be used when necessary.

(8) A monitoring program.

(9) An outreach program describing how pesticide users and other interested parties will learn of issues and mitigation programs.

(10) Sources of funding, if any, for Stage 2 activities, including monitoring.

DPR will review the plan in consultation with Commissioners and the Regional Boards and notify the sponsor of the outcome. If the plan is rejected, DPR will indicate elements that were not adequately addressed and establish time lines the sponsor must meet for resubmittal to DPR for review. If DPR agrees with the plan, DPR will report to the PREC.

After a plan is approved, the sponsor must submit a progress report to DPR annually. DPR may recommend reevaluating mitigation options with the advisory group if progress is unsatisfactory in meeting timetables for implementing management practices and improving water quality. DPR will report to the PREC the outcome of the review of the progress report.

If there are no sponsors forthcoming to implement the self-regulation stage, other measures will be taken, such as Stage 3 or Stage 4.

(b) Stage 3--Regulatory Approach Using DPR's Authority

DPR may exercise its option to begin a Stage 3 program if a sponsor declines to support Stage 2 efforts or if there is unsatisfactory progress toward meeting timetables for submitting reports or implementing mitigation measures. Depending on circumstances, DPR may begin Stage 3 activities before Stage 2 options are exhausted.

DPR will consider matters relating to the elements listed in Stage 2 above. Regulatory options will be considered, including establishing new regulations in Title 3 of the CCR. Such regulations may place the pesticide on the list of California restricted materials (if it is not yet restricted), establish use requirements, or both. For situations where a pesticide use permit is required, such as the use of restricted materials, Commissioners issuing the permit may specify conditions of use that protect water quality. DPR may also consider action on the pesticide's registration, such as cancellation.

DPR will prepare a report including elements that would be required of a Stage 2 plan and information on regulatory steps to be taken by DPR and Commissioners. The report will be submitted to the advisory group and the PREC.

DPR will implement the mitigation efforts as presented in the final report. DPR will prepare subsequent reports presenting the progress of these efforts every three years and will submit it to the advisory group. The appropriate Regional Board(s) will review the progress report and comment on the progress made toward meeting water quality objectives and other issues related to basin plan requirements. The Regional Board may recommend that the advisory group reevaluate mitigation options or the Board may consider a DPR recommendation that the Regional Board initiate regulatory action.

(c) Stage 4--Regulatory Approach Using State and Regional Boards' Authority

The State or Regional Boards may, after conferring with DPR, begin regulatory-based programs if a Board finds that the effort as described in Stage 2 or Stage 3 is not reasonably protecting water quality, such as where there is an actual or threatened violation of water quality standards.

Not withstanding the above-described DPR Surface Water Protection Programs, action may be taken at any time through the State or Regional Board water quality control programs or through other appropriate regulatory measures to assure protection of beneficial uses. Such action will include compliance with the State Board's antidegradation policy and with requirements of the federal Clean Water Act including regulation of point source discharges of pesticides to surface waters.

VII. INTERAGENCY COMMUNICATION PROCEDURES

A. Meetings Between DPR and the State Board

1. Annual Review

DPR and the State Board will meet at least annually to discuss existing and proposed projects, evaluate the effectiveness of the MAA and Plan, to discuss DPR and State Board priorities, and consider changes to the MAA and Plan. The Commissioners and Regional Board staff are encouraged to attend and to submit items for the agenda. Prior to each meeting, an agenda will be mailed to every Regional Board and Commissioners. Meeting summaries which recap the issues and outcome of any evaluations will be provided in writing to each Regional Board and Commissioner.

Decisions and information from these meetings will be publicized and distributed by State Board and DPR to their respective interested parties mailing list.

2. Technical Briefing

Staff of DPR and the State Board will meet at least twice each year to discuss recent activities of each agency, technical issues that deal with pesticides and water quality, and to review overall program direction.

B. MAA Coordinators

The MAA Coordinators (Manager of the Implementation Program, Environmental Monitoring and Pest Management Branch, DPR; and Chief of the Nonpoint Source Agricultural Unit, State Board) will oversee the exchange of information among DPR, Commissioners, State and Regional Boards in the following situations.

1. Early Stages of Planning

To facilitate consultation during the early stages of planning, staff will inform the MAA Coordinators in any of the following situations related to pesticides and water quality:

a. Before issuing any public notice of regulations or of workshops, hearings, or public meetings where policies or projects of mutual interest, including basin planning, will be addressed. DPR and the State Board will provide written notice or other appropriate notification to the other organization for each of the above-mentioned items.

b. Before releasing any pertinent reports, staff will provide a draft copy when possible.

c. Before completing the study design or contract workplan for any field monitoring or other investigations of mutual interest. A brief project description and name of contact person will be provided.

d. Before proposing legislation, budget change proposals, or grant workplans that impact mutual program interests. Appropriate written legislative concepts, budget change proposal concepts, or grant workplans will be provided.

e. Before setting or revising any water quality objectives or other standards.

f. During the development of policies, guidelines, and management plans for federal and/or State projects.

2. Notification of Pesticide Detections

When a pesticide is detected in surface or ground waters of the State at concentrations that violate any federal water quality standard or water quality objective, other known enforceable standard, water quality control plan performance goal, QRL, or federal water quality criteria if available, the MAA coordinators will be contacted as soon as possible. If the pesticide detection does not violate any federal water quality standard or water quality objective, other known enforceable standard, water quality control plan performance goal, QRL, or federal water quality criteria if available, the results will be made available officially on a quarterly basis. It is expected that ongoing communication between staff and the assigned MAA coordinators will be maintained which will provide access to sampling results of studies in progress.

C. Other Information

DPR, Commissioners, and the State and Regional Boards will exchange other information as follows:

1. To the fullest extent possible, DPR, Commissioners, and State and Regional Boards will exchange records, reports, material, and any other information relating to water, water rights, water pollution or quality, or any areas of mutual concern to the end that unnecessary duplication of efforts may be avoided.

2. Written protocols or workplans on monitoring projects addressing nonpoint surface or ground water quality and pesticides prior to monitoring activities.

3. Data from pesticide use reporting as soon as they are available.

4. DPR and State Board will update information used in the Water Quality Assessment.

5. Final reports on projects of mutual interest.

6. On the local level, information can be shared between DPR, the Commissioners, and State and Regional Boards through the quarterly Commissioner's meeting required by the FAC.

As required by CWC section 13163 (c), any agency shall submit to the State Board plans for and results of all investigations that relate to or have an effect upon water quality for review and comment.

D. Procedures to Protect Proprietary Information

These procedures are described in DPR's policy document contained in Appendix VI.

VIII. DISPUTE AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROCEDURES

A. Informal Procedures

It is the desire of both agencies to establish a speedy, efficient, and informal method for resolving interagency conflicts. If a conflict arises at any point in implementing activities described in the Plan, the party or parties identifying the conflict will discuss it first with the MAA coordinators. The MAA coordinators will verbally or in writing discuss and resolve interagency procedure conflicts by a specified time. When appropriate, a representative of the Regional Board(s) and a representative of the Commissioners will participate.

If these attempts do not successfully resolve the conflict, then formal procedures will be followed.

B. Formal Procedures

The MAA coordinators will provide a description of the conflict simultaneously to the State Board's Chief of the Division of Water Quality and to DPR's Assistant Director for the Division of Enforcement, Environmental Monitoring, and Data Management. If the conflict cannot be resolved by a specified time, it will be referred to the State Board's Executive Director and DPR's Director. Each Director will appoint one staff member to assist in resolving conflicts. If the conflict cannot be resolved by a specified time at this level, then it may be referred to the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency for review. Such review shall not be a limitation on each agency's statutory authority.

APPENDIX I.

Management Agency Agreement between the Department of Pesticide Regulation and the State Water Resources Control Board.

APPENDIX II.
Reduced-Risk Practices to Minimize the Potential for Pesticide Off-Site Movement and Transport of Residues to Ground and Surface Water.

The practices listed below are intended to be used for reference only. No comprehensive list of practices or single prescription for the actions needed to protect water quality from pesticide residues can be developed that would be applicable to every site or operation. Flexible, site-specific decision-making is the key to effective protection. Selection of the most appropriate reduced-risk practices for each site and situation will involve local environmental and economic consideration as well as considerations of effectiveness and acceptability of practices.

A. Pest Management Decision Process

Expand the use of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. IPM systems can significantly reduce pesticide inputs to aquatic systems by all routes. IPM is an information-based systems approach to preventing unacceptable levels of pest damage. Pest and environmental information along with available cultural, biological, physical, mechanical, genetic, and chemical pest control methods are integrated to provide environmentally sound and economically viable control of pest problems. The principles of IPM can be briefly summarized as follows:

1. Use crop rotations and planting schedules that minimize pest infestations.

2. Perform thorough in-field assessments of each pest problem.

3. Establish scouting or inspection procedures to monitor pest population levels and severity of the pest problem.

4. Use economic or other appropriate control action thresholds, if available, for each (combination of) pest problem(s) to determine when corrective action(s) must be implemented.

5. Determine corrective action(s) when a control action threshold is reached. Use the following objectives in the selection of specific reduced-risk practices: least disruptive of natural controls, least hazardous to human health, least toxic to nontarget organisms, least damaging to the environment, most likely to produce a permanent reduction in the supportive environment for the target pest(s), and most cost-effective considering both short- and long-term objectives.

6. Establish and maintain an accurate record-keeping system to catalog monitoring information and document management procedures.

7. Evaluate the effectiveness of the IPM program and make adjustments as needed.

B. Pesticide Selection

Select active ingredient, product, formulation, additives, placement, and rate that minimize persistence and biotoxicity and optimize selectivity. Sources of technical information include the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Commissioners, DPR, pest control advisers, Resource Conservation Districts, University of California Cooperative Extension farm advisors, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service.

1. Select pesticides that are not known or suspected to be ground or surface water contaminants, especially when applications are planned for the rainy season.

2. Select herbicides not listed in Title 3, California Code of Regulations   (3   CCR), section   6800(a) for soil applications in areas of shallow ground water. This practice is especially important in areas of high rainfall or where the soil has low organic matter content. Indications of shallow ground water include riparian vegetation; persistently green, unirrigated grass or herbaceous vegetation; springs; evidence of seasonal flooding; or low topographic position in relation to nearby surface water, springs, and riparian vegetation.

3. Use pesticides most selective for the target pest species to enhance natural population control mechanisms and reduce pesticide need.

C. Pesticide Application and Handling

Increase the effectiveness, efficiency, and environmental safety of pesticide application (method, equipment, technique, calibration, rate, timing, and placement), and handling (mixing, loading, storage, transportation, rinsing, and disposal).

1. Use the lowest pesticide application rate and application frequency proven effective.

2. Recalibrate spray equipment frequently to insure accuracy of application rate.

3. Use strategies that avoid long-term, repeated use of a single pesticide. This reduces potential problems with pest resistance or tolerance and the corresponding need for increased application rate and/or frequency.

4. Match pesticide application timing to the most susceptible growth stage of the target pest.

5. Where appropriate, use surface or subsurface band application of pesticides (in or along a crop row rather than over the entire field) to reduce the total amount of pesticide applied.

6. Incorporate weather conditions and irrigation scheduling into the planning of pesticide application timing and placement to minimize the potential for pesticide off-site movement by the water-driven forces of leaching and runoff, e.g., schedule soil applications after large irrigations for frost protection, leaching of salts, or replenishing deep soil moisture. Allow at least a 12-hour time interval between pesticide application and predicted runoff events.

7. Reduce drift:

a. Apply pesticides only when wind speed is less likely to result in drift.

b. Use low delivery pressure and nozzles that do not create ultra-small droplets that can easily drift off-target.

c. Use spray adjuvants that enhance penetration of leaf and soil surfaces.

8. Equip each service rig and piece of application equipment that handles pesticides and draws water from an outside source with an air-gap separation, a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention device, or a double check valve assembly. Backflow protection must be acceptable to both the water purveyor and the local health department (3 CCR, section   6610).

9. Mix, load, and store pesticides at least 100 feet away from water sources, pumps, well heads and sink holes. Store pesticides in a secure and dry site.

10. Properly rinse spray equipment and use closed mixing systems in compliance with 3   CCR, section 6746 to facilitate a triple rinse of the empty pesticide container in compliance with 3 CCR, section 6684 and safely apply the rinsate to the target field or dispose of safely.

11. Use returnable, refillable liquid pesticide containers when available. Properly dispose of pesticide containers in compliance with 3 CCR, sections 6670-6686.

12. Prepare an emergency spill and response plan for each chemical tank truck.

D. Water and Soil Conservation

Minimize water, soil, and sediment losses from treated sites.

1. Improve irrigation system uniformity, and manage irrigation timing and amount to minimize deep percolation and surface runoff losses.

2. Use crop rotations, crop residue management, cover crops, conservation tillage, vegetative filter strips, grade stabilization structures, or sediment basins to minimize soil erosion and runoff velocity from rainfall and irrigation and allow sediment deposition.

3. Install irrigation tailwater return systems to reduce runoff, allowing more time for pesticide dissipation and degradation.

4. For control of urban runoff from new development and construction, avoid conversions of areas particularly susceptible to erosion and sediment loss and/or establish development guidance that identifies these areas and protects them from erosion and sediment loss. These areas are characterized by steep slopes, highly erodible soils, periods of intense rainfall, and inability to revegetate once disturbed.

E. Drainage and Disposal of Surface Water Runoff

Prevent the transport of runoff from treated areas to surface waters and wetlands and to sites that may serve as pathways for ground water contamination, including production water wells, dry wells, and infiltration basins.

1. Surface waters and wetlands.

Surface waters include all reservoirs, lakes, streams, springs, ponds, marshes, and other features where open water surface is discernable other than immediately after rainfall. Wetlands are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency or duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.

a. In situations where there is direct surface water runoff from treatment sites to surface water bodies or wetlands, apply only those chemicals formulated for aquatic or wetland use.

b. Wherever possible, establish noncropland sites adjacent to surface water features as application exclusion zones to reduce the potential for surface water contamination by the transport of residues in storm water runoff.

c. Urban runoff from new development and construction.

(1) To the extent feasible, preserve and, where possible, create or restore areas that provide water quality benefits, such as riparian corridors and wetlands, and promote the design of new development so that it protects the natural integrity of drainage systems and water bodies.

(2) Integrate storm water quality protection into construction and postconstruction activities at all development sites. This should include minimizing the use of toxic materials and their proper containment on-site.

(3) Wherever practicable, maintain peak runoff rates at predevelopment levels.

2. Sites that may serve as pathways for ground water contamination.

a. Production water wells.

(1) Divert the flow of runoff from treated areas to bypass entirely the area where a production water wellhead is located. Where this is not possible, protect the well by sealing or repairing the wellhead or constructing berms.

(2) Properly seal new wells, add safeguards to old wells, and properly destroy abandoned wells.

b. Infiltration drainage structures and sites.

(1) Alter drainage design where necessary to divert runoff from treated areas away from dry wells, infiltration basins, and other infiltration sites.

(2) Properly destroy unused, nonfunctional, improperly constructed or improperly located dry wells and infiltration basins. Dry wells and infiltration basins that are not constructed with the proper setback distance from the water table (in compliance with local ordinances) or are located in areas of shallow ground water may present a pathway for ground water contamination.

APPENDIX III.
Federal and State Authority for the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the County Agricultural Commissioners, the State Water Resources Control Board, and the Regional Water Quality Control Boards.

A. Department of Pesticide Regulation

1. Federal Authority: Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)-- Amendments of 1972 and 1988 and the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR 40)

Pesticide products must be registered federally before distribution or sale to any person. Registration includes submission of required data by the person seeking the registration, evaluation and acceptance of these data by the U.S. Environmental Protection

Agency (U.S. EPA), submission of a proposed label by the registrant, review and acceptance of the final labeling by U.S. EPA, establishment of a tolerance (maximum residue level) for pesticides used on food or feed commodities, and the classification by U.S. EPA of the pesticide product for restricted use or general use as appropriate. The federal authority for the routine registration of pesticide products is under FIFRA section 3.

Other types of federal registration and exemption from registration are allowed. FIFRA section 5 allows the registrant to acquire a use permit, under certain conditions, in order to accumulate information necessary to register a pesticide under FIFRA section 3. Under FIFRA section 18, a federal or state agency may be exempted from the requirements of registration prior to the use of a product if emergency conditions exist that require such exemption.

Once a pesticide product is registered federally, FIFRA section 24(a) authorizes a state to regulate the sale or use with the restriction that any sale or use prohibited federally is not permitted by the state. Section 24(b) requires uniformity of pesticide labeling and restricts a state from requiring changes to the federally accepted pesticide label. A state may register a pesticide product for additional uses of a federally registered pesticide to meet a special local need within the state in accord with FIFRA section 24(c).

FIFRA section 26(a) authorizes a state to have primary enforcement responsibility for federal use violations of the pesticide if the state:

1. Has adopted adequate pesticide use laws and regulations.

2. Has adopted and is implementing adequate procedures for the enforcement of such laws and regulations.

3. Will keep the records and make reports showing compliance with 1 and 2 above.

U.S. EPA has determined that DPR qualifies under these standards and has primary enforcement responsibility for pesticide use violations in California.

FIFRA section 11(2) authorizes states to certify applicators of federal restricted use pesticides if states submit a plan for U.S. EPA approval. DPR has submitted a plan and is authorized by U.S. EPA to certify applicators.

2. State Authority: Food and Agricultural Code (FAC), and Title 3, CCR

The State of California has an extensive pesticide program that enables DPR to evaluate and register pesticide products before their use in the State, monitor the sales within the State, regulate and record the use, protect workers who might come in contact with pesticides, identify pesticides with high risk to human health or the environment and regulate these in special manners; and, through the Commissioners' system, enforce the laws and regulations and take appropriate enforcement action when necessary.

The purposes of the FAC Division 6 and Division 7 and listed in section 11501 are as follows:

1. To provide for the proper, safe, and efficient use of pesticides essential for production of food and fiber and for protection of the public health and safety.

2. To protect the environment from environmentally harmful pesticides by prohibiting, regulating, or controlling uses of such pesticides.

3. To assure the agricultural and pest control workers of safe working conditions where pesticides are present.

4. To permit agricultural pest control by competent and responsible licensees and permittees under strict control of the Director and Commissioners.

5. To assure the users that economic poisons are properly labeled and are appropriate for the use designated by the label.

6. To encourage the development and implementation of pest management systems, stressing application of biological and cultural pest control techniques with selective pesticides when necessary to achieve acceptable levels of control with the least possible harm to nontarget organisms and the environment.

FAC section 12753 defines "economic poison" as any of the following:

1. Any spray adjuvant.

2. Any substance, or mixture of substances that is intended to be used for defoliating plants, regulating plant growth, or for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest, as defined in section 12754.5, which may infest or be detrimental to vegetation, man, animals, or households, or be present in any agricultural or nonagricultural environment whatsoever.

As defined in section 12754.5, "pest" means any of the following that is, or is liable to become, dangerous or detrimental to the agricultural or nonagricultural environment of the state:

1. Any insect, predatory animal, rodent, nematode, or weed.

2. Any form of terrestrial, aquatic, or aerial plant or animal, virus, fungus, bacteria, or other microorganism (except viruses, fungi, bacteria, or other microorganisms on or in living man or other living animals).

3. Anything that the Director, by regulation, declares to be a pest.

The Director controls the registration of pesticides in the State under FAC section 12811, which requires every manufacturer, importer, or dealer of any economic poison to obtain a certificate of registration from DPR before offering the economic poison for sale in