1 Bitter and Killpecker Creeks Watershed 2 Management Plan 3 4 A comprehensive natural resource management plan designed to improve water quality 5 within the Bitter and Killpecker Creeks Watershed 6 7

8 9 10 Developed by the Bitter/Killpecker Watershed Advisory Group and the 11 Sweetwater County Conservation District 12 13 Sweetwater County, Wyoming 14 June 2006 15

0 0 1 Bitter Creek / Killpecker Creek Watershed Plan 2 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... 2 5 Mission Statement ...... 2 6 Purpose ...... 2 7 The Clean Water Act...... 2 8 Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality’s Role ...... 2 9 Sweetwater County Conservation District’s Role ...... 3 10 Conservation District’s Planning Authority ...... 3 11 Public Participation Strategy ...... 4 12 BACKGROUND INFORMATION...... 5 13 Bitter Creek / Killpecker Creek Watershed Description...... 5 14 Sweetwater County Past and Present ...... 5 15 Location...... 5 16 Physical Setting...... 6 17 Elevations ...... 6 18 Water Quality of Bitter and Killpecker Creeks...... 6 19 Water Quality Efforts To Date...... 8 20 ISSUES AND CONCERNS ...... 9 21 Urban/Suburban Impacts...... 9 22 Coordination with DEQ and Local Stakeholders...... 10 23 Water Quality Concerns (303(d) List, Continued Monitoring, Use Classifications) ...... 10 24 Agricultural Impacts...... 11 25 Recreational Impacts...... 12 26 Soil Survey...... 12 27 Industrial Impacts ...... 12 28 Wildlife/Wild Horse Impacts...... 13 29 Funding Issues ...... 13 30 WATERSHED IMPROVEMENT ACTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS...... 13 31 Urban/Suburban Impacts...... 13 32 Coordination with WDEQ and Local Stakeholders...... 14 33 Water Quality Concerns (303(d) List, Continued Monitoring, Use Classifications) ...... 16 34 Agricultural Impacts...... 16 35 Recreational Impacts...... 18 36 Soil Survey...... 18 37 Industrial Impacts ...... 19 38 Wildlife/Wild Horse Impacts...... 19 39 Funding Issues ...... 20 40 MILESTONE TABLE ...... 19 41 APPENDIX A – USE CLASSIFICATION TABLE...... 30 42 APPENDIX B – WATERSHED MAP...... 31 43 APPENDIX C - ACRONYMS...... 33 44 APPENDIX E – REFERENCES CITED ...... 37 45 APPENDIX F – RESPONSE TO COMMENTS ...... 38 46 APPENDIX F – RESPONSE TO COMMENTS ...... 38 47 APPENDIX G – BKWAG MEMBERS & PLANNING TEAM ...... 38 48 APPENDIX G – BKWAG MEMBERS & PLANNING TEAM ...... 43 49 SIGNATURE PAGE ...... 31

1 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2 Mission Statement 3 The mission of the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory Group (B/KWAG) is to assess 4 the condition and classification of the watersheds and water quality, with the goal of achieving regulatory 5 compliance while educating the community, in order to use a locally led process to develop a watershed 6 plan to maintain and/or improve watershed health. 7 8 Purpose 9 The purpose of this watershed plan is to improve the water quality and ultimately delist the impaired 10 segments of Killpecker and Bitter Creeks. The methods used to accomplish this include: 11 1. Maintaining and/or improving the quality of Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds by 12 identifying possible impairments and mitigating those impairments to a realistic and achievable 13 level, through feasible Best Management Practices (BMPs) on a voluntary basis with success 14 determined by evaluating and summarizing the condition of the watersheds; 15 2. Focusing resources on addressing the current listing of the segments in Table A of the WDEQ 16 303(d) list of waterbodies with water quality impairments due to noncompliance with the current 17 fecal coliform, e coli, and chloride water quality standards and addressing whether the two 18 streams are properly classified; 19 3. Facilitating public understanding of BMPs, implement and evaluate BMPs within the 20 watersheds, and to assist in voluntary practices designed to improve watershed health by 21 providing technical and financial assistance; 22 4. Developing and implementing an effective public education and information program, focusing 23 on water quality issues specific to the watersheds while ensuring that a locally led process is 24 used to achieve regulatory compliance; 25 5. Continuing to sample water quality and other relevant parameters to monitor progress achieved 26 through implementation of this watershed plan. 27 28 The Clean Water Act 29 The Clean Water Act (CWA) was adopted by Congress for two primary purposes. That is to: 30 • restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s waters, 31 and; 32 • Where attainable, to achieve water quality that promotes protection and propagation of fish, 33 shellfish, and wildlife, and provides for recreation in and on the water. This goal is 34 commonly known by the expression “fishable/swimmable”. 35 The Environmental Protection Agency has responsibility to ensure that provisions of the CWA are met. 36 With regard to Wyoming, EPA has delegated authority to the Wyoming Department of Environmental 37 Quality (WDEQ) to ensure compliance with the CWA. In states without delegated authority, EPA retains 38 responsibility for CWA compliance. 39 40 Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality’s Role 41 In order to ensure compliance with the CWA, WDEQ had to establish a system for evaluating and 42 protecting waterbodies. Since all waters are not used for the same purpose, no single set of standards could 43 be established to reasonably address water quality concerns. For this reason, WDEQ classified each 44 waterbody within the state. The classifications were based on “designated uses” designed to reflect what 45 the water is currently used for or what the water could potentially be used for. Examples of designated uses 46 include agriculture, industry, drinking water and fisheries among others. Different combinations of 47 assigned designated uses resulted in a single classification for each waterbody (Appendix A). WDEQ then 48 established water quality criteria (narrative or numeric standards) applicable to each classification to ensure 2 1 that water quality is sufficient to support all of the designated uses. Water quality criteria (standards), 2 therefore, are different for each classification. 3 4 In addition to establishing a system for evaluating water quality, WDEQ must also report the condition of 5 the State’s water(s). Under Section 305(b) of the CWA, the State of Wyoming must report the condition of 6 their water(s) to EPA once every two years. This report is known as the 305(b) report. In addition to the 7 305(b) report, under section 303(d) of the CWA, States must identify those waters within its boundaries 8 that are not meeting the water quality criteria (“impaired waters”) applicable to that waterbody based on its 9 classification. As mentioned earlier, states are required to address impaired waterbodies by establishing 10 water quality standards and pollution control activities designed to achieve and maintain the designated 11 use(s). 12 13 For waterbodies listed on WDEQ’s 303(d) list, the Department must complete an assessment of pollution 14 sources known as a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) or accept a locally developed watershed plan to 15 address the impairment. Therefore, if this watershed plan is not locally developed and subsequently 16 endorsed by WDEQ, the Department must complete a TMDL. 17 18 Sweetwater County Conservation District’s Role 19 In 1996 Wyoming Conservation Districts, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Wyoming 20 Department of Agriculture saw an increasing need for Conservation Districts to represent local interests 21 and take the lead in watershed planning efforts. As a result they developed the Watershed Strategic Plan to 22 guide watershed planning efforts across the state. This document insists that “any Watershed effort led by 23 a Conservation District should be landowner driven . . . [and] any participation on behalf of any landowner 24 is strictly voluntary.” By taking an active role in the planning process, the landowners, industrial 25 representatives, and City and County officials serving on the B/KWAG have adhered to this principle. The 26 B/KWAG has followed the steps for watershed planning as outlined in the Watershed Strategic Plan. They 27 have identified and prioritized concerns, set goals and objectives, and developed a watershed management 28 plan. Included in the Bitter Creek/Killpecker Creek Watershed Plan are elements to solicit funds, 29 implement BMPs for water quality improvement, and evaluate and alter the plan if needed. 30 31 The designation of the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek as impaired due to fecal coliform and chloride 32 was cause for concern. Sweetwater County Conservation District (SWCCD) resolved to assume a proactive 33 approach to water quality issues within the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds. Local 34 Conservation Districts; by statutory authority have assumed the responsibility of leading information and 35 education programs, and providing technical and financial assistance to their constituents to conserve 36 Wyoming’s natural resources, and to protect the quality of life of all Wyoming citizens. SWCCD has 37 served as a liaison between WDEQ and local land mangers within the Watersheds to address water quality 38 concerns and to investigate historical and background conditions as they apply to compliance with WDEQ 39 water quality criteria. SWCCD has also endorsed the formation of the B/KWAG; to develop this locally- 40 led, voluntary and incentive-based watershed management plan to improve water quality while preserving 41 the economic sustainability of agricultural, industrial and municipal operations within the Watersheds. The 42 B/KWAG is comprised of local landowners, industrial representatives, community leaders, government 43 land managers, as well as representatives from the City of Rock Springs and Sweetwater County. 44 45 Conservation District’s Planning Authority 46 The District is a local government subdivision of the state as defined and established by the Wyoming 47 Conservation Districts law. The people of Sweetwater County elect the five-member Board of Supervisors 48 to the District during the general election by popular vote. The elected members represent both the rural 49 and urban populations within Sweetwater County. The District supervisors are the only locally elected 3 1 board specifically charged with the responsibility of representing the citizens of Sweetwater County on 2 natural resource issues. A conservation district supervisor serves the community voluntarily. The District 3 Board of Supervisors administers and implements projects and programs funded through local, state, 4 federal, and private partnerships. 5 6 The District, pursuant to the Wyoming Conservation Districts Law, is authorized to develop plans and 7 policy for the District and file said plans in the office of the Sweetwater County Clerk. 8 9 The legislative declarations and policies of the Wyoming State Legislature guide the District’s exercise of 10 authority in developing this Plan. 11 12 Wyoming Statute, §11-16-103 – Legislative Declarations and Policy: 13 14 (a) It is hereby declared that the farm and grazing lands are among the basic assets of the state; that 15 improper land use practices cause and contribute to serious erosion of these lands by wind and 16 water; that among the consequences which would result from such conditions are the 17 deterioration of soil and its fertility and the silting and sedimentation of stream channels, 18 reservoirs, dams and ditches; that to conserve soil, and soil and water resources, and prevent and 19 control soil erosion, it is necessary that land use practices contributing to soil erosion be 20 discouraged and that appropriate soil conserving land use practices be adopted. 21 22 (b) It is hereby declared to the policy of the legislature to provide for the conservation of the soil 23 and water resources of this state, and for the control and prevention of soil erosion and for flood 24 prevention or the conservation, development, utilization, and disposal of water, and thereby to 25 stabilize ranching and farming operations to preserve natural resources, protect the tax base, 26 control floods, prevent impairment of dams and reservoirs, preserve wildlife, protect public 27 lands, and protect and promote the health, safety and general welfare of the people of this state. 28 (Laws, 1941, ch. 134, 2; C.S. 1945, 34 – 1402; Wyo. Stat. 1957, 11-236; Laws 1959, ch. 193, 2; 29 Wyo. Stat. 1977, 11-19-103; Laws 1978 ch. 32, 1.) 30 31 The term “conservation” is broadly defined to include “development, improvement, maintenance, 32 preservation, protection, and use of natural resources, and the control and prevention of flood water and 33 sediment damages, and the disposal of excess waters.” 34 [Addendum Wyo. Stat. 11-16-102 (iv)]. Thus, the policy and authority granted to the District covers all 35 aspects of natural resource use and management within the District. 36 37 Further, Wyoming Statute 11-16-122(b)(v) grants conservation district’s the authority to conduct watershed 38 plans as stated: “conduct surveys, investigations and research and disseminate information relating to range 39 management, the character of soil erosion, flood prevention or the conservation, development, utilization 40 and disposal of water, and the prevention and control measures and works of improvement needed but in 41 order to avoid duplication of research activities, no district shall initiate any research program except in 42 cooperation with the government of this state or its agencies, or with the United States and its agencies.” 43 44 Public Participation Strategy 45 To address these issues at a local level, the Board of Supervisors of the District, through a series of 46 community meetings throughout the watershed, formed the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Watershed 47 Advisory Group comprised of local citizens, municipal and county governments with a vested interest in 48 the integrity of the natural resources found within their watershed. An objective of the B/KWAG is to

4 1 address the impairments based on science, and sound land use planning at the watershed scale, while 2 maintaining community values and culture. 3 4 In the summer of 2001, SWCCD, with the support of Sweetwater County, City of Rock Springs, City of 5 Green River, and landowners applied for a Clean Water Act Section 319 grant proposal to do a historical 6 review and water quality assessment for the Killpecker Creek and Bitter Creek watersheds. Under the 7 guidance of B/KWAG, Lost Iguana Consulting was contracted to conduct the historical review and 8 assessment, completed the spring of 2003. During the summer of 2003, B/KWAG directed SWCCD to 9 contract with Environmental Design and Engineering Consultants (EDE) to complete the historical and 10 water quality assessment for the above watersheds. In the fall of 2003, SWCCD and EDE hosted a public 11 meeting in Rock Spring where the consultant reported on the monitoring results of spring, summer, and fall 12 sampling, as well as additional information on watershed planning. The meetings were advertised and held 13 on a monthly basis and were open to all residents. SWCCD invited presenters to explain implications of 14 the listing of the segments of Killpecker and Bitter Creek and the attendees were informed on the option of 15 a local watershed assessment/planning effort being acceptable to WDEQ to address the water quality 16 impairment. The majority of the citizens attending these meetings agreed that SWCCD should provide 17 leadership to move forward with a locally led watershed planning effort. In addition, approximately 150 18 citizens agreed to serve on an advisory group to provide leadership for a watershed planning effort. The 19 District hosted monthly public meetings in Rock Springs during 2004. The monitoring and planning efforts 20 within the watersheds, along with BMP implementation are currently ongoing. 21 22 BACKGROUND INFORMATION 23 Bitter Creek / Killpecker Creek Watershed Description 24 25 Sweetwater County Past and Present 26 Sweetwater County is named for the Sweetwater River where, according to legend, a balky mule during the 27 fur-trade period dumped a precious cargo of sugar into the water. Thomas Fitzpatrick and Jedediah Smith 28 of the 1824 Ashley Expedition are credited with naming the Sweetwater River, as well as changing the 29 name of the Spanish River to the Green River in honor of one of Ashley's St. Louis, Missouri partners. 30 31 Sweetwater County began its history as Carter County, which was created by the Seventh Dakota 32 Legislative Assembly on December 27, 1867 out of Laramie County, Dakota Territory. Later the First 33 Wyoming Legislative Assembly changed the name from Carter County to Sweetwater County. In 1868, the 34 County also encompassed Yellowstone Park, Uinta, Lincoln, Sublette, Teton, Park, Hot Springs, Fremont, 35 parts of Big Horn and Washakie Counties, and all of the present day Sweetwater County. When the 36 organization of the Territory of Wyoming was completed May 19, 1869, South Pass City was recognized as 37 the County Seat until 1873, when the Third Legislative Assembly changed it to Green River City. Between 38 1884 and 1888, the legislature carved out Fremont County and adjusted the boundaries of Carbon County 39 to define the boundaries of present day Sweetwater County. Sweetwater County is the only Wyoming 40 County that was created as a direct result of mining. Minerals extraction dominated the economy and 41 growth of the County from its inception. The development of mining and the railroad stimulated the 42 agriculture industry to provide food for the workers. Some of Wyoming's earliest livestock operations were 43 established in Sweetwater County. Mining and agriculture remain the dominant economic forces within 44 Sweetwater County today. As of the 2000 Census, the population of Sweetwater County was 37,613, 45 though recent growth in mining and the energy industry has probably increased that population 46 substantially. 47 Location 48 Sweetwater County Conservation District encompasses all of Sweetwater County in the southwest corner 49 of Wyoming, which covers 10,426 square miles and is the thirteenth largest county in the United States. 5 1 Adjacent counties include Lincoln, Sublette, Fremont, Carbon, and Uinta Counties in Wyoming; Daggett 2 and Summit Counties in Utah, and Moffat County in Colorado. 3 4 5 Physical Setting 6 Sweetwater County's land includes areas of low elevation, semi-arid desert to high mountain conifer/aspen 7 landscapes. The majority of soils are underlain by soft bedrock of sedimentary origin, sandstone and shale. 8 Along the northeastern and eastern portion lies the Red Desert, named for its red sand, with its vast area of 9 moving sand dunes. The Flaming Gorge NRA is on the southern border of the District and extends into 10 Utah. 11 12 Elevations 13 Elevations range from 6,000 to 11,000 feet above sea level. The average elevation is about 6,500 to 7,000 14 feet. 15 16 Water Quality of Bitter and Killpecker Creeks 17 18 The following is taken from the Bitter/Killpecker Creek Watershed Study conducted in 2004 and 2005 by 19 Environmental Design Engineers (EDE). The entire report, including water quality data is available at the 20 Sweetwater County Conservation District Office (EDE 2006). 21 22 Segments of Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek in Sweetwater County Wyoming are listed as water quality 23 impaired for fecal coliform bacteria and chloride. Water quality and quantity monitoring on Bitter Creek, 24 Killpecker Creek, Little Bitter Creek, Ten Mile Draw and Deadman Wash, Salt Wells Creek, Dead Horse 25 Canyon and Little Bitter Creek was conducted from April 2004 through October 2005 under a 319 26 watershed assessment grant to the Sweetwater County Conservation District (SWCCD). Monitoring sites 27 were located from upstream of most human development of the watersheds, downstream to the confluence 28 of Bitter Creek with the Green River. The monitoring sites were sampled 16 times for measurement of fecal 29 indicator bacteria and 5 times for inorganic constituents. In addition to the bacteriologic and inorganic 30 chemistry sampling, measurements and sampling under Beneficial Use Reconnaissance Project (BURP) 31 protocols were conducted including a geomorphic assessment, habitat assessment and biological 32 assessment through macro-invertebrate sampling and enumeration. 33 The results of this work indicate that Bitter Creek from the confluence with the Green River, upstream to 34 where Bitter Creek enters the urbanized area of Rock Springs meets the criteria for impairment by fecal 35 coliforms and the proposed E. coli standards. In addition, upper Bitter Creek was found to possibly exceed 36 some bacteriological criteria under some rainfall/runoff conditions, though additional data is 37 recommended prior to making such judgments. Killpecker Creek is also bacteriologically impaired from at 38 least the confluence with Bitter Creek upstream to the Town of Reliance. The longevity, degree, and 39 persistence of this bacteriological contamination may pose a heath threat and it is recommended that 40 within the impaired reaches, these streams be posted with signage warning of potential health risks from 41 contact. It is recommended that specific and selective sampling be conducted to attempt to identify the 42 sources. As a Class 2 C stream, Bitter Creek has primary contact recreation as a beneficial use. Due to the 43 natural conditions within this stream, it is questionable if primary contact recreation is a reasonable 44 beneficial use objective. 45 46 With respect to chloride, the sampling and analysis found that Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek are 47 impaired with respect to the chronic chloride standard throughout most of the stream length, and with 48 respect to acute toxicity standards in the lower reaches of both streams. It appears that this impairment 49 may be naturally occurring as a result of the surrounding geology and soils. Furthermore, it appears that 6 1 the magnitude of the high chloride concentrations in Killpecker Creek may be due to interchange with 2 groundwater, though no numeric groundwater quality data is available to support this hypothesis. The 3 acute toxicity impairment to Bitter Creek downstream from the confluence with Killpecker Creek is due to 4 the contribution of high chloride loading from Killpecker Creek. It is recommended that additional 5 sampling and analysis be conducted to determine the role of groundwater in the high chloride 6 concentrations in the lower reaches of Killpecker Creek. Upon completion of such additional investigation, 7 It is further recommended that, depending on the results, a Use Attainability Analysis (UAA) be conducted 8 to examine the need for establishment of site specific criteria to account for the apparent natural condition 9 of these streams with respect to chloride. 10 11 The results of the BURP studies revealed that Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek are naturally under high 12 biological stress conditions as a result of the flow regimes, the moveable bed sedimentology, fine grained 13 substrate, the natural riparian composition and the natural water quality. With respect to the morphologic 14 condition of these streams, Bitter Creek upstream and downstream of the Rock Springs urban area are in a 15 condition reasonably reflective of natural high desert streams and do not show unusual alteration or 16 changes due to man causes activities. Killpecker Creek upstream of the Rock Springs urban area is also 17 reflects relatively unaltered geomorphic character consistent with a natural water course in this area. 18 Within the urban area of Rock Springs, both of these streams are highly modified due to urban 19 encroachment imposing channelization, in-filling, and channel modifications to maximize useable land 20 adjacent to these streams. The degree of development, encroachment and filling is at a level such that it is 21 questionable that as a practical and economic matter, much of it can be expected to attain features 22 consistent with the natural geomorphic, hydrologic, biologic and riparian condition of a native stream. It is 23 recommended that a UAA be conducted to determine if these streams in the urban area of Rock Springs can 24 be reasonably expected to be restored to a geomorphic, biologic and habitat condition which meets the 25 classified use. 26 27 As mentioned earlier, every waterbody within the state is classified by WDEQ based on the existing or 28 potential uses of that waterbody. Bitter Creek has been classified as Class 2C and Killpecker Creek has 29 been classified as Class 3B. Chapter One of WDEQ’s Water Quality Rules and Regulations define Class 30 2C waters as:

31 Class 2C waters are those known to support or have the potential to support only 32 nongame fish populations or spawning and nursery areas at least seasonally including 33 their perennial tributaries and adjacent wetlands. Class 2C waters include all 34 permanent and seasonal nongame fisheries and are considered “warm water”. Uses 35 designated on Class 2C waters include nongame fisheries, fish consumption, and aquatic 36 life other than fish, primary contact recreation, wildlife, industry, agriculture, and 37 scenic value.

38 Chapter One of WDEQ’s Water Quality Rules and Regulations define Class 3B waters as:

39 Class 3B waters tributary waters including adjacent wetlands that are not known to 40 support fish populations or drinking water supplies and where those uses are not 41 attainable. Class 3B waters are intermittent and ephemeral streams with sufficient 42 hydrology to normally support and sustain communities of aquatic life including 43 invertebrates, amphibians, or other flora and fauna which inhabit waters of the state at 44 some stage of their life cycles. In general, 3B waters are characterized by frequent 45 linear wetland occurrences or impoundments within or adjacent to the stream channel

7 1 over its entire length. Such characteristics will be a primary indicator used in 2 identifying Class 3B waters...

3 The WDEQ water quality criteria being exceeded are the fecal coliform criteria and the chloride criteria. 4 The water quality criteria for fecal coliform (WDEQ, 2002) are:

5 During the entire year, fecal coliform concentrations shall not exceed a geometric mean 6 of 200 organisms per 100 milliliters (based on a minimum of not less than 5 samples 7 obtained during separate 24 hour periods for any 30 day period), nor shall the 8 geometric mean of 3 separate samples collected within a 24 hour period exceed 400 9 organisms per 100 milliliters in any Wyoming surface water.

10 The water quality criteria for chloride (WDEQ, 2002) are 860 milligrams/Liter (1-hour average) or 230 11 milligrams/Liter (4-day average).

12 Bitter Creek, from the confluence with the Green River up to the confluence with Killpecker Creek 13 (Appendix B / Stream Classifications and Stream Impairments Map), was included on Table A of 14 WDEQ’s 303(d) List of Impaired Waterbodies in 2000 for fecal coliform impairing contact recreation. The 15 same segment of Bitter Creek was listed in 2002 for chloride impairing nongame fish and aquatic life other 16 than fish. Killpecker Creek, from the confluence with Bitter Creek and upstream to the confluence with 14- 17 mile Creek, was listed in 2000 for fecal coliform impairing contact recreation. The primary source of data 18 for listing was WDEQ.

19 Water Quality Efforts to Date 20 Upon listing this stream the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Water Quality Division 21 (WDEQ, WQD), conducted sampling in 1998, 1999, and 2000 to confirm the impairment. WDEQ sampled 22 at 3 locations on Killpecker and Bitter Creeks during the summer of 1999. Fecal coliform bacteria 23 sampling in the city of Rock Springs resulted in fecal coliform 30-day geometric means ranging from 26 24 colonies/100 ml to 929 colonies/100 ml, verifying the impairment designation. WDEQ completed 25 additional monitoring of samples on May 30th, 2000, on Killpecker and Bitter Creeks, with a one hour 26 geometric mean of 1,940 colonies per milliliter. 27 28 To begin working toward the objective of addressing the impairments identified by WDEQ, the group 29 developed a grant proposal for submission to the Governor’s Non-point Source Pollution Task Force. This 30 grant would provide the resources required to: 1) inventory existing historical water quality data, 2) 31 develop a comprehensive water quality monitoring program within the watersheds to supplement existing 32 historical water quality data and, 3) develop this watershed plan to address the fecal coliform/E. coli, and 33 chloride impairments. This group has met monthly since 2001. In 2002, the grant proposal was approved. 34 A Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) is the initial step in developing a local watershed management 35 strategy and the SAP was developed through a series of meetings with members of the Bitter Creek and 36 Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory Group with technical assistance from the District and the consulting 37 group, Environmental Design Engineering (EDE). The SAP and subsequent watershed study addressed 38 local concerns and issues while meeting the Wyoming State legislative requirements (Enrolled Act 47) for 39 credible data, as well as the Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) requirements of the WDEQ, 40 Water Quality Division (WQD), and the EPA. 41 42 In the spring and fall of 2004, and again in the spring and fall of 2005, the Sweetwater County 43 Conservation District (the District) conducted water quality and Beneficial Use Reconnaissance Surveys at 44 14 surface water monitoring sites toward completion of the watershed study. Sampling and analysis 8 1 performed included four 30-day sampling regimes for fecal coliform bacteria, E. coli, total coliform 2 bacteria, chlorides, other major ions, and one synoptic sampling round of sampling on Killpecker Creek 3 specifically for chlorides. The results of the District’s sampling effort are presented in detail in the report 4 “Bitter Creek/Killpecker Creek Watersheds Study” (February 2006). The analysis of the data from the 5 District’s 2004-2005 watershed study reaffirms the impairment classification for portions of Bitter Creek 6 and Killpecker Creek. The fecal coliform 30-day geometric mean standard, from Rock Springs 7 downstream on Bitter Creek, was exceeded in between 25% and 75% of the samples at 3 sampling sites, 8 which exceeds the 10% sample exceedance impairment criteria of the WDEQ. In addition, at two 9 monitoring sites near Rock Springs on Killpecker Creek the 200 colonies/100 ml limit was exceeded in 10 50% and 75% of the samples, respectively. These data combined with the historic data suggest a long term 11 and persistent exceedance of fecal bacteria standards in Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek near and 12 downstream of Rock Springs. With respect to chloride, a total of 5 grab samples for chloride were 13 collected at each of the 14 monitoring stations when water was present; for a total of 67 chloride analyses. 14 A total of 41 samples exceeded the chronic water quality standard of 230 mg/l, while 19 water quality 15 samples exceeded the acute water quality standard of 860 mg/l. The highest concentrations were found on 16 the lower reaches of Killpecker Creek and Bitter Creek. Killpecker Creek, as a tributary of Bitter Creek, is 17 responsible for the largest contribution of chloride to Bitter Creek. 18 19 With the completion of the watershed plan, the District intends to more aggressively pursue 20 information/education efforts and cost-share programs aimed at implementing BMPs. In addition, the 21 District has implemented a cost-share program through the EPA/WDEQ 319 Grant and the Wyoming 22 Department of Agriculture’s Water Quality Grant to assist landowners in completing various BMP projects 23 addressing Animal Feeding Operations-Confined Animal Feeding Operation’s (AFO/CAFO) throughout 24 Sweetwater County. A County ballot initiative for one-cent sales tax for the improvement of City sewer 25 systems, within Sweetwater County, is in effect. 26 27 ISSUES AND CONCERNS 28 29 Urban/Suburban Impacts 30 Bitter and Killpecker Creeks are influenced by both urban and suburban land uses. The City of Rock 31 Springs and its outlying areas are within the Bitter Creek watershed. The impacts of these land uses on 32 water quality are different than those of land uses such as industrial and agricultural. Specific areas of 33 consideration are: 34 Suburban Stormwater Runoff – Pollutants, such as animal waste (including pets), from a variety of 35 sources accumulate on land surfaces and storm water runoff may flush those pollutants directly 36 into surface waters. 37 Urban Stormwater Runoff - Water quality can be adversely affected in urban areas with 38 impervious surfaces via storm water drainages during storm events. Educational opportunities 39 emphasizing impacts of pet waste disposal, efficient lawn fertilization and watering practices and 40 potential for rain water capture and re-use. There is also a need to gather information pertaining 41 to the location of storm sewer drainages to surface water so that opportunities for urban BMP 42 implementation may be pursued. 43 Septic Systems (aging or illicit discharge) – Correct installation and maintenance is very 44 important to minimize the potential impact of this human waste management practice. There may 45 be areas within the municipality that could benefit from being tied in with the city sewer system. 46 There may be a need to provide information on the administrative procedures for formation of a 47 sewer district to assist those currently using individual septic systems that may benefit by using a 9 1 community or cluster type system. There may be a need to provide information pertaining to 2 required maintenance and proper installation, including county requirements, of septic systems. 3 There may be a need to coordinate between Sweetwater County Health Department and the City 4 of Rock Springs to determine if there are residences that do not show up in either set of records. 5 If there are many instances similar to this, the need for a septic program may be in order. 6 Sewer and Water Districts – There may be a need to inform the sewer and water districts within 7 the watershed of cost-share opportunities that exist with programs such as CWA Section 319. The 8 Conservation District has information to help any sewer and water districts, without preconceived 9 notions of needed repairs, in applying for funding for projects if money is needed. 10 City Sewer Systems – The municipal sewer system is in need of repair. This issue is particularly 11 important considering the influence of abandoned mine shafts and shifting of subsurface geologic 12 formations that could potentially cause sewer line breaks and provide a conduit for sewage 13 introduction into stream channels. 14 Small Acreage Land-Use Management – Concentrated land use activities such as hobby farming, 15 concentrated livestock grazing, vehicle storage, fuels and hazardous materials storage all have 16 potential to adversely impact the water resources in the Bitter and Killpecker Creeks Watershed. 17 Human Health – The BKWAG and Conservation District are concerned about potential illness 18 associated with ingestion of water from Bitter and Killpecker Creeks. The Sweetwater County 19 Health Department and public need to be aware of water quality and potential risks associated 20 with contact recreation in these waterbodies. 21 22 Coordination with DEQ and Local Stakeholders 23 Recognition of water quality issues by landowners and the public at large is the initial challenge. In order to 24 encourage participation in voluntary BMP activities, the District will lead effective information 25 dissemination programs regarding opportunities for implementation and progress achieved in plan 26 implementation. To ensure successful implementation of this watershed plan, WDEQ and other agencies 27 involved with water quality regulation, funding and assessment will have to be aware of the status of this 28 planning effort. 29 30 Water Quality Concerns (303(d) List, Continued Monitoring, Use Classifications) 31 Due to the nature and location of impairments within Bitter and Killpecker Creeks, the B/K WAG 32 considers bacteria as the primary priority for implementation of BMPs. Work on the physical and 33 biological integrity of these creeks should be initiated with proper safety precautions in place or after the 34 bacteria concern has been addressed. Continuous monitoring of the water quality (at least annually) in 35 Bitter/Killpecker Creeks and their drainages is expensive, and time consuming, yet a high priority. 36 Resources must be found in order to ensure data credibility and accuracy. Water quality monitoring data is 37 needed to ascertain implementation impacts on the water quality in a quantifiable way. A tremendous 38 amount of data must be collected to determine the natural background conditions for the watershed. As this 39 watershed plan is implemented, sampling sites and dates may change in response to management activities 40 or trends noticed in the data. For these reasons, the steering committee believes that local expertise in 41 water quality issues is also important. Therefore, water quality training for Conservation District 42 employees is a priority. 43 44 There are segments within Bitter and Killpecker Creeks that historically were designated as Class 4, but 45 were changed to Class 2 or 3 as a result of EPA review. The initial designations were accurate. Therefore, 46 a Use Attainability Analysis should be pursued to ensure that classifications can actually support the 47 appropriate use designations. 10 1 2 Agricultural Impacts 3 Agriculture is a vital component of the local economy and provides a desirable lifestyle for many within the 4 Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds. It is a priority of the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek 5 Watershed Advisory Group to maintain or improve the viability of the agricultural industry within the 6 watershed in conjunction with improving water quality. Specific issues include: 7 8 Waste Management of Corrals and Feeding Areas – Corrals and feeding areas that lie within the 9 watershed, or are adjacent to or near surface waters and seasonal feeding areas, should be 10 managed to minimize impacts of drainage into area streams. Increase awareness and educate the 11 community on options, including cost-share opportunities, for reducing impacts of livestock and 12 wildlife waste on surface waters including options for manure spreading and nutrient 13 management. 14 15 Grazing Management - Opportunities exist for Best Available Control Technology (BACT) 16 (Grazing Best Management Practices) to address potential fecal coliform/e.coli loads as well as 17 using grazing as a tool to enhance stream bank stability and riparian area conditions. Increase 18 awareness and educate the community on options, including cost-share opportunities, to increase 19 grazing efficiency through range improvements such as off-site water, water developments for 20 better distribution of animals to improve water quality. The Bitter Creek/ Killpecker Creek 21 Watersheds have naturally erosive soils, badlands and precipitation patterns that induce erosion 22 that negatively impact water quality. The BKWAG recognizes the potential benefits of improved 23 grazing management, but also realizes that natural erosion conditions may limit the influence of 24 grazing BMPs on bacteria, chloride and sediment loads. There are many potential sources of fecal 25 coliform / E.coli. In addition to livestock grazing issues, other man-induced sources of fecal 26 coliform / E.coli must also be addressed in an attempt to improve water quality. If fecal coliform / 27 E.coli water quality criteria are not attainable, even after implementation of BMPs outlined in this 28 Plan, WDEQ should consider background conditions and site-specific criteria. 29 30 Irrigation Management – While there is not a great deal of irrigation within the watershed, there 31 are opportunities for specific projects to implement for irrigation conveyance to control 32 contamination of nearby surface waters. Priority dates of water rights and availability of stored 33 water may influence the feasibility of implementation of projects designed to increase irrigation 34 efficiency. Drought and lack of available water can result in reduced vegetative cover for areas 35 normally receiving irrigation water. Increasing irrigation efficiency can positively influence water 36 quality by reducing irrigation tail water and pollutants contained therein. Irrigation also increases 37 vegetative cover and provides buffer strips to increase water quality, if implemented correctly. 38 39 Economic Impacts of Remediation – Clean water provides economic benefits to the agricultural 40 community. Remediation should not, however, place an undue economic burden on those who 41 participate in BMP programs. Economic viability of the agricultural operation should be a 42 priority as BMP alternatives are considered. There is a wide range of incomes throughout the 43 watershed, and those with limited economic resources, may be unable to implement BMPs, 44 regardless of cost share opportunities. Agricultural producers in these watersheds must carefully 45 evaluate if any BMP implementation is economically feasible, a benefit to the objectives of the 46 watershed or are required to meet WDEQ specifications. However, this may become a regulatory 47 issue where cost share opportunities may no longer be available. 48

11 1 Recreational Impacts 2 The outdoor recreation/tourism industry is important to Sweetwater County. However, inappropriate 3 activities associated with recreation may have an adverse impact on the water resources of the Bitter Creek 4 and Killpecker Creek watersheds. To avoid inappropriate discharge of waste, recreational vehicle waste 5 management infrastructure or information directing campers to the appropriate facilities needs to be 6 available at campsites. Irresponsible use of ATVs, motorcycles and four wheel drive vehicles removes 7 vegetation and can contribute to increased levels of fecal coliform/E. coli, sediment and chlorides in surface 8 water. 9 10 Soil Survey 11 A level three NRCS soil survey for Sweetwater County and specifically, Bitter and Killpecker Creeks 12 Watersheds, would provide information for all sectors influencing water quality. This soil survey would be 13 particularly valuable in identifying potential geological influences on the unusually high chloride 14 concentrations and, therefore the impaired stream segments within the watershed. A complete soil survey 15 would also provide accurate soils information to City and County planning officials as well as residents of 16 the Bitter and Killpecker Creeks and assist in evaluating potential BMP implementation. This would be 17 particularly useful for implementing practices such as buffer strips, grazing management and septic 18 remediation. 19 20 Industrial Impacts 21 Industry is a vital component of Sweetwater County’s economy. Although WDEQ requires industrial 22 developments to hold discharge permits, road development, rail bed maintenance and pipeline construction 23 may contribute additional surface runoff and, therefore, bacteria and chlorides to surface waters. Industry is 24 closely monitored and must abide by all requirements prior to activity. Specific issues include: 25 26 • Wyoming Pollution Discharge Elimination System (WYPDES) Permits – WDEQ has proposed a 27 new classification system within the state and dropped the Class 4 classification, consequently 28 industries needing to discharge could be impacted. Reclassification from Class 4 streams and 29 making the criteria more difficult to obtain may ultimately decrease water quality by creating 30 artificial conditions such as water without natural levels of sediment. The volume of water could 31 also be impacted by treatment. It is not the intent of the BKWAG to pursue UAA to lessen 32 discharge standards for industry, but to accurately reflect the current and potential use-support. 33 • Stormwater Management Plans – Industrial storm water is regulated by WDEQ (Every surface 34 disturbance greater than one acre requires a construction storm water permit). If some industries do 35 not have these plans in place, there may be impacts to water quality. There may be a need for 36 educational opportunities to present to industrial representatives on permitting requirements and 37 compliance. 38 • Wetland Mitigation – There are wetlands that have been either created or enlarged by industry 39 through discharge. These wetlands need to be documented as “artificial”. We may be experiencing 40 benefits from artificial wetlands that change the classification of the stream segment and create 41 unattainable expectations for use-support in the event that the discharge ceases. There have also 42 been requests by the BLM to the Jim Bridger Power Plant to augment supply to the Ten Mile Marsh 43 by intentionally overflowing holding ponds. This activity may improve water quality by providing 44 additional filtration of surface water, but industrial activity alone is providing this benefit and 45 should be considered temporary. 46 • Ground Water - Industry has also provided augmented water and may have created artificial ground 47 water levels in some locations due to redistribution of surface and ground water coupled with 48 alterations in flow regimes. When industrial activities cease, the water table will return to historic 49 levels and potentially impact water quality by drying up existing springs and channels. 12 1 • Minerals Development – Oil and gas development and associated reclamation is scattered 2 throughout the watersheds and generally less concentrated than the disturbance created by surface 3 coal mining. Depending on density and management, oil and gas development within the watershed 4 may have more or less noticeable impacts. Runoff from the well pads themselves is generally 5 controlled. However, access roads pose an issue of additional sediment contribution to the natural 6 waterways. Proper construction, maintenance and surfacing of roads have the potential to lessen 7 sediment loads. Coal bed methane development and in-fill projects (increased number of wells 8 within an existing field) may have potential for impacts to water quality. For any mineral 9 development, water handling, discharge methods and proper reclamation are critical for maintaining 10 or improving water quality. The continued collection of water quality data is particularly important 11 to document conditions prior to widespread CBM development and discharge as these activities 12 may also impact use-support designations. 13 14 Wildlife/Wild Horse Impacts 15 Significant populations of wildlife are present in the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds and the 16 wildlife impact(s) on water quality is unknown. Resulting fecal coliform deposits into the drainage arise 17 from their need for water and possible solutions for their impact(s) are limited and may be difficult to 18 implement. For this reason, if continuous monitoring of the water quality in the Bitter Creek and 19 Killpecker Creek watersheds reflects that fecal coliform levels still do not meet WDEQ requirements after 20 human induced impacts have been addressed at a level the local Conservation District Board feels 21 adequate, then the WDEQ should consider that some contributing factors are out of “human control”. The 22 Bitter and Killpecker Creeks Watershed provides habitat for wild horses as well and their management will 23 play an important role in water quality improvement efforts. 24 25 Funding Issues 26 Any BMP proposed and implemented should not place an unreasonable financial burden on the 27 individual(s) involved. Cost share funding will need to be sought out and made available through the 28 District Board of Supervisors (office) for any individuals wishing to apply for assistance in the 29 implementation of practices that are targeted to the long-term improvement of water quality in the Bitter 30 Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds. 31 32 WATERSHED IMPROVEMENT ACTIONS AND 33 RECOMMENDATIONS 34 Urban/Suburban Impacts 35 ISSUE 36 Homeowners, developers and planning officials need to have accurate, current information readily 37 available to make informed decisions. Specific issues are as follows: 1) suburban storm water runoff, 2) 38 urban storm water runoff, 3) septic systems, 4) sewer and water districts, 5) city sewer systems, 6) small 39 acreage land-use management and 7) human health considerations. 40 OBJECTIVES 41 • Provide accurate water quality and natural resource related information to planning officials and 42 residents regarding potential urban and suburban land use impacts to water quality within Bitter and 43 Killpecker Creeks. 44 • Improve water quality within Bitter and Killpecker Creeks by working with the City of Rock 45 Springs, Sweetwater County, water and sewer districts, landowners and communities within the 46 watershed to implement voluntary and incentive-based BMPs.

13 1 • Relieve the economic burden of BMP implementation by providing information pertaining to 2 existing cost-share opportunities available to willing participants and pursuing funding for needed 3 cost-share for urban and suburban activities. 4 ACTION ITEMS 5 • The Advisory Group, District, and NRCS will continue, and attempt to expand, the cost-share 6 programs for BMPs addressing water quality by providing the technical assistance to apply for 7 funds and documenting resource concerns. 8 • Make available $24,000 (based on remediation/reconstruction of nominally six or more septic 9 systems) in cost-share funding for voluntary upgrades to inadequate sewer and septic systems to 10 municipalities and landowners each year for five years. Cost share rates will be contingent upon 11 funding rules and availability. 12 • The District will conduct five homeowner workshops related to septic system evaluations including 13 brochures and public notices (Measurable data could include a roster of attendees, number of 14 brochures passed out, survey of applicants). 15 • The District will design a continuing education program for realtors and contractors emphasizing 16 proper septic system installation and operation and submit the proposal to the Wyoming Association 17 of Realtors. 18 • The District will approach the Western Wyoming Resource Conservation and Development Council 19 to seek assistance in pursuing all available options for funding sewer remediation or other water 20 quality concerns. 21 • The Sweetwater County Conservation District will provide water quality data to Sweetwater County 22 Health Department and the City of Rock Springs for their consideration for public health notices. 23 • The Sweetwater County Conservation District will also provide water quality data to outlying 24 communities and all sewer districts within the watershed. 25 • Inform Sweetwater County Health Department of bacterial water quality data so that they can 26 determine appropriate action to prevent illness due to contact with water. 27 • Provide the Wyoming Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems to homeowners within the drainage 28 areas of the impaired segments through workshops and County Assessor’s data and associated 29 mailings. 30 • Provide interactive booth at the County Fair and workshops outlined in this plan that highlights the 31 water quality of Bitter and Killpecker Creeks and emphasizes water quality and effects of pet waste, 32 lawn watering, over fertilization and other uses. 33 • Annually produce an article in the Rocket Miner’s Progress Edition regarding the current progress 34 of implementation of this plan. 35 • The BKWAG will make a request to the City of Rock Springs to develop a storm water 36 management plan and provide the scope of work for the one-cent ballot initiative for sewer 37 upgrades. 38 • Produce a map, in conjunction with the City of Rock Springs, Sweetwater County and other 39 interested parties indicating storm water drainages into Bitter and Killpecker Creeks. 40 • The District will approach the youth groups about projects to attach storm-drain buttons for public 41 awareness. 42 • While bacteria are the first water quality priority, the Conservation District will provide support for 43 the Bitter Creek Beautification Project by assisting the City of Rock Springs in the implementation 44 of this project. 45 46 Coordination with WDEQ and Local Stakeholders 47 ISSUE

14 1 Awareness of this watershed planning effort by WDEQ and other entities responsible for water quality 2 regulation, assessment and funding will assist in voluntary implementation activities. 3 OBJECTIVES 4 Capitalize on as many options as possible to inform residents of the progress of this plan and opportunities 5 for assistance with BMP implementation. 6 7 Keep WDEQ and other agencies updated on the status of this watershed plan 8 9 ACTION ITEMS 10 • The District will provide a brief synopsis of the plan and update Sweetwater County residents on 11 the District’s mailing list regarding watershed activities in the quarterly newsletter. 12 13 • The Bitter/Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory Group will develop an Annual Report of Progress 14 regarding the watershed project and make available to watershed residents and the WDEQ. 15 16 • The District will provide regular updates on Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds 17 implementation activities in their regular newsletter. 18 19 • The District will develop a brochure explaining the project and Watershed Plan and will distribute 20 to watershed residents, WDEQ, and the general public. 21 22 • The District will conduct two workshops/tours for agricultural producers on BMPs available and 23 resources to assist in installation, management and funding BMPs. (Measurable data could include 24 a roster of attendees, number of brochures passed out.) 25 26 • The District will create a link on the Wyoming Association of Conservation District and the Rock 27 Springs Chamber of Commerce website(s) to serve as a source of information on water quality 28 issues for residents and maintain it with current data. (Measurable data could include a counter on 29 the website tracking the number of visitors to the site.) 30 31 • The District will implement an information and education program for appropriate RV and camping 32 waste management within the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds. (Measurable data 33 could include number of no-dumping buttons placed in areas of improper waste releases.) 34 35 • The B/K WAG will continue to meet at least twice a year or more often if needed, for the next five 36 years, to review progress of this watershed plan and provide input on the District’s water quality 37 program. 38 39 • The District will deliver the watershed study to the City of Rock Springs, Sweetwater County and 40 the sewer and water districts. 41 42 • Document implementation activities not included in this watershed plan and include in the annual 43 update document to WDEQ and the other districts. 44 45

15 1 Water Quality Concerns (303(d) List, Continued Monitoring, Use Classifications) 2 ISSUE 3 The only quantifiable method of assessing the effectiveness of this watershed plan is to continue water 4 quality monitoring. As a component of working towards water quality improvement and eventual delisting, 5 while ensuring that Bitter and Killpecker Creeks are properly classified, remain a priority. 6 OBJECTIVES 7 • Document progress toward addressing elevated fecal coliform / E. coli and chloride levels. 8 • Demonstrate full designated use support through documented water quality improvement, influence 9 of background conditions and proper WDEQ classification. 10 11 12 ACTION ITEMS 13 • The District, in coordination with the B/KWAG, will collect credible water quality data to illustrate 14 effects of implementation and gain understanding of background conditions. 15 • The District, in coordination with the B/K WAG, will initiate an additional water quality monitoring 16 program to focus on the impacts of ground water on bacteria and chloride concentrations in Bitter 17 and Killpecker Creeks as the watershed study indicates that bacteria may be associated with ground 18 water. In addition to the water quality monitoring effort, a focused study on chloride relationships 19 to soils will also be initiated. 20 • If fecal coliform and E. coli are detected in groundwater, this may be an indication that there are 21 leaking sewer and septic lines. In this instance, the district will provide this data to the City of Rock 22 Springs, Sweetwater County and other landowners so that they may address any problems. 23 • The District proposes to staff a local watershed coordinator position responsible for assisting with 24 the implementation of the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek Watershed Plan. Position will provide 25 assistance to the local landowners and homeowners in implementing management practices. Upon 26 request by landowners, this assistance will include, but not be limited to, consultation with industry 27 and landowners on reclamation, AFO/CAFO issues; grazing management; assistance to 28 homeowners with assessments and implementation of projects to rectify sewer lines and septic 29 system deficiencies and plan for future centralized sewer systems; educational efforts, and water 30 monitoring. 31 • Provide Conservation District personnel with watershed management and water quality monitoring 32 training at least annually or more often as needed. 33 • Based on all available credible water quality data, submit UAAs to WDEQ to ensure proper WDEQ 34 classifications. 35 36 Agricultural Impacts 37 ISSUE 38 It is a priority of the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory Group to maintain or improve 39 the viability of the agricultural industry within the watershed in conjunction with improving water quality. 40 Specific agricultural activities to address are as follows: 1) waste management, 2) grazing management, 3) 41 irrigation management and 4) economic impacts of remediation. 42 43 OBJECTIVES 44 • Reduce the amount of agricultural waste entering the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek through 45 implementation of BMPs and information and education dissemination. 46 • Reduce the amount of human-caused sediment within the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek 47 through implementation of BMPs and information and education dissemination. 48 • Relieve the economic burden of BMP implementation by providing information pertaining to 16 1 existing cost-share opportunities available to willing participants and pursuing funding for needed 2 cost-share for agricultural activities. 3 • Reduce, to the extent possible and economically feasible, the amount of sediment/chlorides entering 4 the watersheds contained within this planning area, with emphasis on the Bitter Creek and 5 Killpecker Creek. 6 • Reduce, to the extent possible and economically feasible, the amount of fecal coliform /E. coli 7 entering the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds. 8 • Inform irrigators of technology and cost-share opportunities to increase irrigation efficiency. 9 • Reduce the amount of sediment/chloride, fecal coliform / e.coli and other contaminants reaching 10 stream channels by reducing overland flow and tail water through implementation of efficient 11 irrigation BMPs 12 • Reduce the economic burden of BMP implementation for agricultural producers by providing cost- 13 share opportunities. 14 15 ACTION ITEMS 16 • Provide information and education by hosting 10 agriculture/small acreage workshops, during the 17 five-years of this plan, highlighting BMPs and cost-share opportunities to improve water quality. 18 • Annually send educational materials to residents and the BLM Operations Manager on SWCCD’s 19 mailing list, highlighting Animal Feeding Operation (AFO)/Confined Animal Feeding Operations 20 (CAFO) improvement options, including the Landowner Self-Assessment form (illustrates risk of 21 contributing animal waste to surface waters) and a progress report of past BMP implementation 22 within the Conservation District. 23 • Facilitate implementation of AFO/CAFO and small acreage projects to comply with current rules 24 and regulations. This will be contingent upon funding availability and sufficient voluntary 25 participation 26 • Continue to encourage and support grazing BMPs and approved BLM Allotment Management 27 Plans and annual operating plans for these watersheds. 28 • Review the Wyoming Standards and Guides for Healthy Rangelands Evaluations for allotments 29 within the BKWAG Watersheds, which may indicate which allotments are in good condition 30 (needing no change in management) versus allotments where BMP implementation would be a 31 higher priority. 32 • Provide 2 workshops in a five-year period to highlight benefits of treatment for sagebrush control as 33 related to livestock grazing and increased vegetative cover for reduced soil erosion. 34 • Encourage joint permittee/BLM monitoring of grazing allotments within these watersheds to 35 evaluate grazing management to increase vegetative cover. 36 • Annually advertise the availability of cost-share programs available for irrigation practices in the 37 SWCCD Newsletter. 38 • Develop a brochure highlighting different alternatives for irrigation and programs available for 39 assisting producers in increasing irrigation efficiency. 40 • Since irrigation is not a major influence within the watershed, the District, in conjunction with 41 NRCS, will contact irrigators to inform them of alternatives to improve water quality through 42 changes in irrigation management. 43 • The Conservation District Staff and the Natural Resources Conservation Service will work with 44 landowners for Best Management Practice implementation and habitat improvements through 45 available federal, and/or non-federal financial assistance programs. SWCCD will apply for funding 46 to assist with implementation projects. Potential sources include: NRCS programs (EQIP, WRP, 47 WHIP, CCRP, GRP, etc.), EPA/WDEQ Section 319 Grants programs. Implementation may also be 48 realized through BLM’s allotment management planning process.

17 1 • The Advisory Group, the District and Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) will 2 continue, and attempt to expand the cost-share programs for BMPs addressing water quality. 3 • The District will conduct two workshops/tours for agricultural producers on BMPs available and 4 resources to assist in installation, management and funding BMPs. 5 • Initially apply at least five grazing BMPs that enhance riparian areas, within a five-year period. 6 These projects may include: new prescribed grazing management plans, cross-fencing, weed 7 management projects, wild horse management and protection/development of natural water. 8 Additional projects will be planned as needed in relation to ongoing water quality monitoring data 9 results. Project numbers will be dependent upon funding availability. 10 • Initiate a weed CRM in Sweetwater County to address white top, salt cedar, halogeton and others. 11 These weeds contribute to soil erosion and thus sediment, bacteria and chloride loading to Bitter 12 and Killpecker Creeks. 13 14 Recreational Impacts 15 ISSUE 16 Recreational vehicle dumping and lack of dumping sites may be a contributing factor relating to bacteria 17 water quality concerns. To avoid inappropriate discharge of waste, waste management infrastructure or 18 information directing campers to the appropriate facilities needs to be available at campsites. 19 20 OBJECTIVE 21 Reduce the impact of RV dumping and recreation on fecal coliform/E. coli levels in the Bitter Creek and 22 Killpecker Creek watersheds through a comprehensive information and education program in the next five 23 years. 24 25 ACTION ITEMS 26 • Develop and implement an information and education program, including a brochure to be annually 27 distributed, that will address appropriate Recreational Vehicle (RV) and camping waste 28 management throughout the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds over the next five years. 29 • Provide a proposal to the City, County and the Wyoming Department of Transportation to provide 30 additional RV dump stations on major roads and points of interest. 31 • The District will disseminate proper OHV use information or other available brochures at the 32 District office and at community events. 33 34 Soil Survey 35 ISSUE 36 A completed soil survey would assist in all aspects of the implementation of this watershed plan. The 37 Sweetwater County Commissioners have endorsed the idea of pursuing a soil survey. The need for soil 38 surveys is also documented in other federal and local planning processes such as various Resource 39 Management Plans (RMPs) and Conservation District Long-range Plans. 40 41 OBJECTIVE 42 Initiate and complete a soil survey for Sweetwater County. 43 44 ACTION ITEMS 45 • Contact BLM as the major landowner, along with industry and other landowners to invite them to 46 be a partner in securing access and funding to secure the technical expertise. 47 • Contact NRCS and adjoining Counties to ensure that existing soil survey crews stay in place until 48 the southwest region of Wyoming is surveyed.

18 1 • The Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts (WACD) will pursue earmark for NRCS and 2 BLM for soil survey in SW Wyoming due to energy development. 3 4 Industrial Impacts 5 ISSUE 6 Since industrial impacts are so closely monitored and regulated by DEQ, the appropriate role for BKWAG 7 in assisting industry will be focused on providing credible data, educational opportunities, updates for 8 water quality rule changes and plan implementation updates. 9 10 OBJECTIVE 11 Provide information to assist industry in meeting water quality standards, air quality standards and 12 understanding development and its impact on a watershed scale. 13 14 ACTION ITEMS 15 • Provide updates to appropriate industry representatives regarding water quality data and watershed 16 planning progress. 17 • Provide existing water quality data for evaluation of use classifications for the waterbodies to 18 industry. 19 • Complete a UAA if supported by historic and current data to ensure proper classification of the 20 waterbodies. 21 • Provide a wetland inventory and map to industry based on ground checking of a sub-sample of 22 wetlands identified on the map. 23 • Provide a comprehensive list and map of WYPDES permits to industry as a result of watershed- 24 based permitting. 25 • Host at least one workshop that addresses regulatory requirements relevant to water quality for 26 industry. Topics to include are storm water management plans, WYPDES permits, correlation 27 between designated use classifications and water quality standards and air quality standards. 28 29 Wildlife/Wild Horse Impacts 30 ISSUES 31 Wildlife/Wild Horse concentrations in the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds may have an 32 adverse impact on fecal coliform/E. coli levels in the watersheds. 33 34 OBJECTIVES 35 Provide off-stream watering sites that may draw wildlife/wild horses away from surface waters and control 36 the season of use for grazing lands, thereby minimizing their impacts. 37 Provide information and education on wildlife/wild horse impacts to the water quality and provide 38 suggestions on management practices to mitigate these impacts over the next five years. 39 40 ACTION ITEMS 41 • Initially, apply at least five wildlife/wild horse BMPs that enhance riparian areas within a five-year 42 period. Examples of projects include; natural water source protection and increasing horse 43 distribution. Additional projects will be planned as needed in relation to ongoing water quality 44 monitoring data results. Project numbers will be dependent upon funding availability. 45 • The District is currently involved in and will continue to participate on a continual basis in long- 46 range federal land planning processes as well as project level environmental assessments and 47 environmental impact statements.

19 1 • The District will make contact and coordinate with Wyoming Game and Fish to document baseline 2 conditions for fish suitability and document change through time. 3 • The District will formally request that BLM adhere to the Wyoming Wild Horse Consent Decree to 4 control the horse population and improve habitat 5 6 Funding Issues 7 ISSUES 8 Remediation should not place an undue burden on those who voluntarily participate in BMP programs and 9 should enhance economic conditions when possible. Human and financial resources are limited to 10 adequately monitor and repair identified human caused activities that contribute to the water quality (short 11 and long-term) in the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds. Cost share programs, information and 12 educational programs and continuous monitoring will be necessary in order to make this plan workable and 13 effective. 14 15 OBJECTIVES 16 Over the course of this projected five year Watershed Plan, provide cost sharing incentives to affected 17 landowners, municipalities and governmental entities to address water quality issues of the Bitter Creek and 18 Killpecker Creek watersheds. 19 20 ACTION ITEMS 21 • Include the work that has already been done in securing grant funds for BMPs, human resources and 22 cost-share opportunities for the implementation of BMPs in the next five years. 23 • Target future grants for two years at a time - applications should be made approximately one year in 24 advance considering a one-year time frame for contract/Project Implementation Plan (PIP) 25 initiation. 26 • The District Board of Supervisors will seek out cost-share funding opportunities and make it 27 available for individuals wishing to apply for assistance that would target the long-term 28 improvement of water quality in the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds. An example of 29 this type of effort would include a CWA Section 319 Grant for septic systems. The District Board 30 of Supervisors and the Bitter/Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory Group will be the entities 31 directly responsible for deciding who qualifies for cost-share funding to address these issues. 32 • The District will apply for funding to initiate a ground water/surface water interaction study from 33 Sweetwater County 34 35 36

20 1 MILESTONE TABLE MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec The Advisory Group, District, and NRCS will continue, and attempt to expand, the cost-share programs for BMPs addressing water quality by X providing the technical assistance to apply for funds and documenting resource concerns. Completed Make available $24,000 (based on remediation of six systems) in cost- share funding for voluntary upgrades X to inadequate sewer and septic systems to municipalities and landowners each year for five years Completed The District will conduct five homeowner workshops related to X septic system evaluations including brochures and public notices Completed The District will design a continuing education program for realtors and contractors emphasizing proper septic X system installation and operation and submit the proposal to the Wyoming Association of Realtors Completed The District will approach the Western Wyoming Resource Conservation and Development Council to seek assistance in pursuing X all available options for funding sewer remediation or other water quality concerns Completed The Sweetwater County Conservation District will provide water quality data to Sweetwater County Health X Department and the City of Rock Springs for their consideration for public health notices Completed X

19 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec The Sweetwater County Conservation District will also provide water quality data to outlying communities X and all sewer districts within the watershed Completed Inform Sweetwater County Health Department of bacterial water quality data so that they can determine X appropriate action to prevent illness due to contact with water Completed X Provide the Wyoming Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems to X homeowners within the drainage areas of the impaired segments Completed Provide interactive booth highlighting the water quality of Bitter and Killpecker Creeks and emphasizing X water quality and effects of pet waste, lawn watering, over fertilization and other uses Completed Annually produce an article in the Rocket Miner’s Progress Edition regarding the current implementation X X X X X of the watershed in Bitter and Killpecker Creeks and progress of implementation of this plan Completed X The BKWAG will make a request to the City of Rock Springs to develop a storm water management plan and X provide the scope of work for the one-cent ballot initiative for sewer upgrades Completed Produce a map, in conjunction with the City and County, indicating storm X water drainages into Bitter and Killpecker Creeks Completed

20 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec The District will approach the youth groups about projects to attach storm- X drain buttons for public awareness Completed While bacteria is the first water quality priority, the Conservation District will provide support for the X Bitter Creek Beautification Project by assisting the City of Rock Springs in the implementation of this project Completed The District will provide a brief synopsis of the plan and update Sweetwater County residents on X X X X X watershed activities in their newsletter Completed The Bitter/Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory Group will develop an Annual Report of Progress X X X X regarding the watershed project and make available to watershed residents and the WDEQ Completed The District will provide regular updates on Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds X X X X X implementation activities in their regular newsletter Completed The District will develop a brochure explaining the project and Watershed Plan and will distribute to watershed X residents, WDEQ, and the general public Completed The District will conduct two workshops/tours for agricultural producers on BMPs available and X X resources to assist in installation, management and funding BMPs.

21 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec

Completed

The District will create a link on the Wyoming Association of Conservation District and the Rock Springs Chamber of Commerce website(s) to serve as a source of information on water quality issues X for residents and maintain it with current data. (Measurable data could include a counter on the website tracking the number of visitors to the site.) Completed The District will implement an information and education program for appropriate RV and camping waste management within the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek X watersheds. (Measurable data could include number of no-dumping buttons placed in areas of improper waste releases.) Completed The District will disseminate proper OHV use information or other X available brochures at the District office and at community events. Completed The B/K WAG will continue to meet at least twice a year, or more often, for the next five years, if needed, to X X X X X X X X X X review progress of this watershed plan and provide input on the District’s water quality program Completed X X The District will deliver the watershed study to the City of Rock X Springs, Sweetwater County and the sewer and water districts Completed

22 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Document implementation activities not included in this watershed plan X X X X X and include in annual updates to DEQ and the other districts Completed The District, in coordination with the B/KWAG, will collect credible water quality data to illustrate effects of X X X X implementation and gain understanding of background conditions Completed The District, in coordination with the B/K WAG, will initiate an additional water quality monitoring program to focus on the impacts of ground water on bacteria and chloride concentrations in Bitter and Killpecker Creeks as the watershed X X X X study indicates that bacteria may be associated with ground water. In addition to the water quality monitoring effort, a focused study on chloride relationships to soils will also be initiated Completed If fecal coliform and E. coli are detected in groundwater, this may be an indication that there are leaking sewer and septic lines. In this instance, the district will provide this X X data to the City of Rock Springs, Sweetwater County and other landowners so that they may address any problems Completed The District proposes to staff a local watershed coordinator position responsible for assisting with the X implementation of the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek Watershed Plan Completed

23 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Provide Conservation District personnel with watershed management and water quality X X X X monitoring training at least annually or more often as needed Completed Based on all available credible water quality data, submit UAAs to WDEQ X to ensure proper DEQ classifications Completed Provide information and education by hosting 10 agriculture/small acreage workshops, during the five-years of X X X X X X X X this plan, highlighting BMPs and cost-share opportunities to improve water quality Completed Annually send educational materials to residents on SWCCD’s mailing list, highlighting Animal Feeding Operation (AFO)/Confined Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) improvement options, including the X X X X X X X X Landowner Self-Assessment form (illustrates risk of contributing animal waste to surface waters) and a progress report of past BMP implementation within the Conservation District Completed Facilitate implementation of AFO/CAFO and small acreage projects to comply with current rules X and regulations. This will be contingent upon funding availability and sufficient voluntary participation Completed Continue to encourage and support grazing BMPs and approved BLM Allotment Management Plans and X X X X X X X X X annual operating plans for these watersheds Completed X

24 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Review the Wyoming Standards and Guides for Healthy Rangelands Evaluations for allotments within the BKWAG Watersheds, which may indicate which allotments are in good X condition (needing no change in management) versus allotments where BMP implementation would be a higher priority Completed Provide 2 workshops in a five-year period to highlight benefits of treatment for sagebrush control as X X related to livestock grazing and increased vegetative cover for reduced soil erosion Completed Encourage joint permittee/BLM monitoring of grazing allotments within these watersheds to evaluate X X X X X X X X X X grazing management to increase vegetative cover Completed X Annually advertise the availability of cost-share programs available for X X X X X irrigation practices in the SWCCD Newsletter Completed Develop a brochure highlighting different alternatives for irrigation and programs available for assisting X producers in increasing irrigation efficiency Completed Since irrigation is not a major influence within the watershed, the District, in conjunction with NRCS, will contact irrigators to inform them X of alternatives to improve water quality through changes in irrigation management Completed

25 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec The Conservation District Staff and the Natural Resources Conservation Service will work with landowners for Best Management Practice implementation and habitat X improvements through available federal, and/or non-federal financial assistance programs. SWCCD will apply for funding to assist with implementation projects Completed The Advisory Group, the District and Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) will continue, and X attempt to expand the cost-share programs for BMPs addressing water quality Completed The District will conduct two workshops/tours for agricultural producers on BMPs available and X X resources to assist in installation, management and funding BMPs Completed Initially apply at least five grazing BMPs that enhance riparian areas, within a five-year period. These projects may include; new prescribed grazing management plans, cross- X X X X X fencing, weed management projects, wild horse management and protection/development of natural water Completed Initiate a weed CRM in Sweetwater County to address white top, salt X cedar, halogeton and others Completed

26 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Develop and implement an information and education program, including a brochure to be annually distributed, that will address appropriate Recreational Vehicle X (RV) and camping waste management throughout the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds over the next five years Completed Provide a proposal to the City, County and the Wyoming Department of Transportation to X provide additional RV dump stations on major roads and points of interest Completed Contact BLM as the major landowner, along with industry, Sweetwater County (RS 2477) and other landowners to invite them to be X X X X X a partner in securing access and funding to secure the technical expertise for soil survey Completed Contact NRCS and adjoining Counties to ensure that existing soil survey crews stay in place until the X X X X X southwest region of Wyoming is surveyed Completed WACD will pursue earmark for NRCS and BLM for soil survey in X X X X SW Wyoming due to energy development Completed Provide updates to appropriate industry representatives regarding X X water quality data and watershed planning progress Completed Provide existing water quality data for evaluation of use classifications X X for the waterbodies to industry

27 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Completed Complete a UAA if supported by historic and current data to ensure X proper classification of the waterbodies Completed Provide a wetland inventory and map to industry based on ground checking X of a sub-sample of wetlands identified on the map Completed Provide a comprehensive list and map of WYPDES permits to industry as a X result of watershed-based permitting Completed Host at least one workshop that addresses regulatory requirements relevant to water quality for industry. Topics to include are storm water management plans, WYPDES X permits, correlation between designated use classifications and water quality standards and air quality standards Completed Initially, apply at least five wildlife/wild horse BMPs that enhance riparian areas within a five- year period. Examples of projects X X X X X include; natural water source protection and increasing horse distribution Completed The District is currently involved in and will continue to participate on a continual basis in long-range federal land planning processes as well as X X X X X project level environmental assessments and environmental impact statements Completed

28 MILESTONE TABLE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Jan- Apr- Jul- Oct- Action Items Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec Mar Jun Sep Dec The District will make contact and coordinate with Wyoming Game and Fish to document baseline conditions X for fish suitability and document change through time Completed Include the work that has already been done in securing grant funds for BMPs, human resources and cost- X share opportunities for the implementation of BMPs in the next five years Completed X Target future grants for two years at a time - applications should be made approximately one year in advance X considering a one-year time frame for contract/Project Implementation Plan (PIP) initiation Completed The District Board of Supervisors will seek out cost-share funding opportunities and make it available for individuals wishing to apply for assistance that would target the long- X term improvement of water quality in the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek watersheds. An example of this type of effort would include a CWA Section 319 Grant for septic systems Completed The District will apply for funding to initiate a ground water/surface water X interaction study from Sweetwater County Completed

29 APPENDIX A – USE CLASSIFICATION TABLE

Class Wildlife Industry Recreation Game Fish Agriculture Scenic Value Drinking Water Non-Game Fish Fish Consumption Other Aquatic Life 2AB Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 2A Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 2B No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 2C No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 3A No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 3B No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 3C No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 4A No No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 4B No No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 4C No No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

30 APPENDIX B – WATERSHED MAP (next page)

31

32 APPENDIX C - ACRONYMS

AFO – Animal Feeding Operation AMP – Allotment Management Plan B/KWAG – Bitter Creek / Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory Group BLM – Bureau of Land Management BMP – Best Management Practice BURP – Beneficial Use Reconnaissance Project CAFO – Confined Animal Feeding Operation CCRP – Continuous Conservation Reserve Program CRM – Coordinated Resource Management CWA – Clean Water Act EDE – Environmental Design Engineers EPA – United States Environmental Protection Agency EQIP – Environmental Quality Incentives Program GRP – Grassland Reserve Program NRA – Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area NRCS – Natural Resources Conservation Service PIP – Project Implementation Plan QA/QC – Quality Assurance/Quality Control RMP – Resource Management Plan RV – Recreational Vehicle SAP – Sampling and Analysis Plan SWCCD – Sweetwater County Conservation District TMDL – Total Maximum Daily Load UAA – Use Attainability Analysis USGS – United States Geological Survey WACD – Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts WDEQ – Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality WHIP – Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program WQD – Water Quality Division of WDEQ WRP – Wetland Reserve Program WYPDES – Wyoming Pollution Discharge Elimination System

33 APPENDIX D - GLOSSARY Allotment Management Plan (AMP) –An “allotment management plan” means a document prepared in consultation with the lessees or permittees involved, which applies to livestock operations on the public lands or on lands within National Forests in the eleven contiguous Western States and which: (1) prescribes the manner in, and extent to, which livestock operations will be conducted in order to meet the multiple-use, sustained-yield, economic and other needs and objectives as determined for the lands by the Secretary concerned; and (2) describes the type, location, ownership, and general specifications for the range improvements to be installed and maintained on the lands to meet the livestock grazing and other objectives of land management; and (3) contains such other provisions relating to livestock grazing and other objectives found by the Secretary concerned to be consistent with the provisions of this Act and other applicable law. Animal Feeding Operations (AFO) - The term "animal feeding operation" (AFO) is defined in the Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 122.23 (b) (1) as a lot or facility where animals "have been, are or will be stabled or confined and fed or maintained for a total of 45 days or more in any 12 month period and crops, vegetation forage growth, or post-harvest residues are not sustained in the normal growing season over any portion of the lot or facility." Best Management Practices – or BMP’S are described as “Guidelines for managing the use or a resource in a manner that protects the resource and promotes ecological and economic sustainability. Beneficial Use Reconnaissance Project – WDEQ water quality monitoring program designed to collect scientifically sound chemical, physical, and biological monitoring data to characterize stream integrity and determine support of designated uses using a rapid screening-type approach. Clean Water Act (CWA) 319 Grant -- Congress amended the Clean Water Act (CWA) in 1987 to establish the section 319 Non-point Source Management Program because it recognized the need for greater federal leadership to help focus State and local non-point source efforts. Under section 319, State, Territories, and Indian Tribes receive grant money which support a wide variety of activities including technical assistance, financial assistance, education, training, technology transfer, demonstration projects, and monitoring to assess the success of specific non-point source implementation projects. Confined Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) - A CAFO is defined in 40 CFR 122.23 appendix B as "an animal feeding operation where more than 1,000 'animal units' (as defined by the regulation) are confined at the facility; or more than 300 animal units are confined at the facility and either one of the following conditions are met: pollutants are discharged into navigable waters through a man-made ditch, flushing system or other similar man-made device; or pollutants are discharged directly into waters of the United States which originate outside of and pass over, across, or through the facility or otherwise come into direct contact with the animals confined in the operation." Coordinated Resource Management (CRM) -- A Voluntary and Collaborative Problem-Solving Process for Resource Management Issues. The CRM process helps people manage natural resources in a productive, environmentally-friendly, and economical manner, for the long term. It is a coalition-building process which involves those using the resources in the decision making about those resources. Credible data -- means scientifically valid chemical, physical and biological monitoring data collected under an accepted sampling and analysis plan, including quality control, quality assurance procedures and available historical data, 34 E. coli - A rod shaped gram-negative bacillus (0.5 x 3-5 m) abundant in the large intestine (colon) of mammals. Fecal Coliform – a group of bacteria that are used as an indicator of pollution. They are found in the excremental waste of warm blooded animals and are defined as rod shaped bacteria that ferment lactose to form gas within 48 hours of being placed (Incubated) in lactose broth at 35C. Governor’s Non-point Source Pollution Task Force -- Wyoming Non-point Source Task Force, a task force formed via executive order by former Governor Jim Geringer. The task force is in charge of distributing about $1.5 million per year in Clean Water Act funds for projects to clean up the state's waterways. The board is also charged with updating Wyoming's Best Management Practices guidelines to reduce pollution and habitat degradation. The grazing BMP is the next document to be to be updated. Point source-- means any discernible, confined and discrete conveyance, including but not limited to any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, conduit, well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock, concentrated animal feeding operation or vessel or other floating craft, from which pollutants are or may be discharged. Nonpoint source -- means any source of pollution other than a point source. For purposes of W.S. 16-1-201 through 16-1-207 only, nonpoint source includes leaking underground storage tanks as defined by W.S. 35-11-1415(a) (ix) and aboveground storage tanks as defined by W.S. 35-11-1415(a) (xi). Quality Assurance – is an integrated system of management procedures and activities used to verify that the quality control system is operating within acceptable limits and to evaluate the quality of data. Quality Control – a system of technical procedures and activities developed and implemented to produce measurements of requisite quality. Total Maximum Daily Loads – is the amount of a pollutant that a water body can receive and still meet water quality standards. Section 303(d) List – identifies waters not meeting State water quality standards. Section 305(b) Report – is an assessment of the States water quality and states the degree to which each water body supports the designated uses of a States Water Quality Standards. Standards and Guidelines – Standards and guidelines may be administered by various regulatory agencies for a variety of purposes. In general, with respect to water quality, standards refer to specific numeric or narrative criteria that address health, safety and environmental quality. In general, with respect to water quality, guidelines refer to recommended practices for the implementation of reasonable, responsible, and cost effective water quality management or water quality practices. Use Attainability Analysis (UAA) -- means a structured scientific assessment of the factors affecting the attainment of the use. The factors may include physical, chemical, biological, and economic factors. Natural Resource Conservation Service -- Natural Resources Conservation Service (originally called the Soil Conservation Service) is a government agency providing leadership in a partnership effort to help America's private land owners and managers conserve their soil, water, and other natural resources. Watershed -- A watershed is a landscape surface area that surrounds and drains to a common water body such as a lake, small stream, or river basin system. Watersheds provide useful and, often clearly defined landscape units for scientific assessments and planned management actions. Watershed Plan — The formulation of a plan, based on the concept of a Watershed, a Water Basin, a Hydrologic Region, or a Hydrologic Study Area (HSA), with the intent to 35 assess climatological conditions, inventory existing ground and surface water resources, determine current water uses, project future socioeconomic and environmental demands for those resources, and explore feasible water-balancing options, so as to maximize the benefits to the inhabitants of a study area while simultaneously preserving and protecting the region’s wildlife, habitat, and environmental conditions.

36 APPENDIX E – REFERENCES CITED

EDE Consultants, 2006. Bitter Creek/Killpecker Creek Watersheds Study, 319(h) Grant Project Report, 2004-2005 Monitoring Period.

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Water Quality Division, Watershed Program. Cheyenne, Wyoming, “Wyoming’s 2002 303 (d) List of Waters Requiring TMDLs”. 2002.

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Water Quality Division, Chapter 1 “Quality Standards for Wyoming Surface Waters”, 2001.

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Surface Water Standards, Water Quality Division, “Wyoming Surface Water Classification List”. 2001.

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, 2001b, Rules and Regulations, Water Quality Division, Chapter I Quality Standards for Wyoming Surface Waters.

Lost Iguana Consulting Inc., Historical Water Quality Report for the Bitter Creek Watershed, June 20, 2003.

EDE Consultants, 2003, Bitter and Killpecker Creek Supplemental Historic Analysis and Monitoring Site Location Review.

37 APPENDIX F – RESPONSE TO COMMENTS

June 7, 2006 c/o Doug Miyamoto, WACD Sweetwater County Conservation District 79 Winston Drive, Suite 110 Rock Springs, WY 82901

RE: WDEQ comments on Draft Bitter and Killpecker Creeks Watershed Management Plan

Dear Mr. Miyamoto:

Thank you for the opportunity to review this document. It is a very comprehensive and well written watershed plan. I look forward to seeing the implementation of the Action Items and the results of those efforts.

General Comments Some of the names do not seem do not have capitalizations standard throughout the document. You may want to do a “search and replace” on things like: Bitter/Killpecker Creek Watershed Plan and the City of Rock Springs.

Replace e. coli with E. coli.

Response: Concur, the plan changed accordingly

Specific Comments

Page 2, Line 13. The sentence that starts, “With success determined…” seems to be misplaced or a fragment.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly

Page 3/4, Lines I do not understand the use of [Addendum] in these locations. 47/7, 10.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly

Page 4, Line 48. B/KWAG or BKWAG is not used consistently throughout the document.

Response: The document was changed to consistently read “BKWAG”.

Page 6, Line 31. It would be helpful to the public if you were to add a definition of BURP to this line or add a definitions/acronym page to the document.

38 Response: A definition for “BURP” was added to the glossary section of the plan to address this concern

Page 8, Line 28. “To begin working toward the objective…” toward what objective?

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly

Page 8, Line 34. I would suggest a comma inserted after strategy.

Response: Concur; the sentence was restructured for clarification.

Page 8, Line 41. I would suggest removing the comma after spring.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 8, Line 44. I would suggest moving the dash to between so it reads, “included in four 30-days sampling…”

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 9, Line 5. Add a dash to 30-day geometric mean.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 9, Line 9. A range of 50% to 75% for the samples exceeded the 200-colony limit. Does this mean 50% at one site and 75% at the other were exceeded? This is not clear to me. Please clarify. If you are combining all the samples at these two sites, then there should be one percentage of exceedances for the group, not a range.

Response: Concur; the sentence was restructured for clarification.

Page 9, Line 12. You may want to consider adding commas around, “when water was present”.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 10, Line 44. I suggest some added language to improve the clarity of this sentence, such as: “If it is determined by the BKWAG that the previous Class 4 designation were accurate,”

Response: Concur; the sentences were restructured for clarification.

Page 11, Line 34-35. I understand what your point in these sentences, but additional clarification would be beneficial. Suggested language, “influence water quality through a reduction in excessive irrigation return flow to surface water, thus reducing the bacterial and chloride loading.

39 Response: Concur; the sentence was restructured for clarification.

Page 11, Line 18. Add a dash to off-site.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly

Page 11, Line 44. I would suggest adding some language to this to clarify. An example would be, “…in any BMP implementation is economically feasible, a benefit to the objectives of the watershed plan or required to meet WDEQ regulations.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 13, Line 7. A parenthetical phrase describing “in-fill projects” would be helpful.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 14, Line 11. Another metric to determine effectiveness of your educational outreach would be to ask each person that comes in for a grant or grant information how they heard about the program. This would tell you what outreach avenue is give you the best results.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 14, Line 25. This document will be distributed how?

Response: Concur; the objective was changed to clarify the distribution process.

Page 14, Line 26. What venue is the booth be used at?

Response: Concur; the objective was changed for clarification

Page 14, Line 32. Is this going to be a joint effort with the City of Rock Springs Sewer Department?

Response: Yes, other entities will also be included and the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 14, Line 38. Delete the bullet.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 15, Line 3. Is this mailed to ALL county residents? If so, please state this.

Response: No, the plan was changed to indicate how residents will be updated regarding watershed plan implementation.

40 Page 15, Line 48. Document/observe the Reliance Sewer District’s sewage treatment pond response to the spill report issues by WDEQ/WQD. Copy included.

Response: The BKWAG appreciates the information from WDEQ and are aware of the water quality concerns at the Reliance Sewer and Water District. This is a WDEQ compliance issue but the District will modify this watershed plan to include implementation projects to reduce pollution risk if requested by the Reliance Sewer and Water District. Contacting sewer and water districts within the watershed is identified as an action item in this plan and those districts will be informed of available assistance for water quality improvement implementation opportunities.

Page 17, Line 35. Correct the WWDEQ.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 17, Line 42 May want to replace the “;” with a “:”.

Response: Concur, the plan was changed accordingly.

Page 18, Line 44. If in the process of identifying permitted industrial facilities, you find that some have surface water sampling or discharge sampling requirements reportable to WDEQ; you can obtain and add this information to your assessment and monitoring program for the watersheds.

Response: Concur with the comment, no change to the document required.

Page 19, Line 20. Please add language that addresses the inspection of the BLM wild horse corral east of Highway 187, north of Rock Springs (aerial photos and topo included).

Response: This section of the watershed plan addresses wild horse impacts on rangeland. The Agricultural Impacts section of the plan addresses AFO/CAFO issues. The action item was changed to include contacting the BLM Operations Manager (responsible for BLM horse facilities). The District also has Storm water Management Plan on file for this facility.

Page 19, Line 40. I would suggest adding another Action Item that includes contacting the BLM to conduct an evaluation, in conjunction with WDEQ, NRCS or whoever is appropriate and evaluate BMP needs at this facility if there are any.

Response: See above response.

Please let me know if you need clarification on any of the items I have listed.

41 Sincerely,

Don Newton Watershed Planner

Enclosures: Reliance spill report Aerial photos and topo of BLM wild horse corral Aerial photo of Reliance sewage ponds

42 APPENDIX G – BKWAG MEMBERS & PLANNING TEAM

Bitter Creek/Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory Group

Lisa Anselmi Bill Hill Steve Shea John Arambel Mike Holbert Randy Shipman Bob Arambel Gary Honeyman Chuck Simek Pete Arambel Harry Horrn Quintin Skinner John Arnoldi Darin Howe Jack Smith Shawn Arnoldi Guy Hulsey Laural Sperry Justin Baldwin Jill Jelaco George Stephen Chad Banks Wally Johnson Chuck Sykes John Barton Angelo Kallas Bill Taliaferro Dan Beckermann Paul Kauchich Ed Taliaferro Mike Bilanzich Tim Kaumo Lisa Tarufelli Eric Bingham Marc Kenley David Tate Tom Burris Patty Kern Mary Thoman Fran Carrier Neil Kourbelas Tom Spicer MD John Cheese Karl Kronfuss Judy Valentine Tom Clayson Bob LaFaivre Jeff Varley Bill Coble Arnie Lewis Roger Varley Randy Conner Larry Lloyd Bill Volsic John Corra Bruce Macy Vess Walker White Course Jim Magagna Randy Walker Laura Crandall Joseph Manatos Ted Ware Lila Cross Tom McCullough Bernie Weynand Doris Davis Bill McCurtain Bobby White Teri Deakins Brian McDermaid Ken Wilbert Carl Demshar Elwin McGrew Betty Wilkinson Jean Dickinson George McJunkin Harold Williams Marc Dickinson Pat Mehle Aaron Wire Dennis Doncaster Mike Meyer Bruce Woodward George Douzenis David Moneyhun Bill Wyle Jack Doyle Mike Moon Jennifer Yeend Ginger Eaton Stephen Mullaney Ted York Chris Ellison Lance Neef Gary Zakotnik Mike Erickson Michelle Neeman Paul Zancanella John Eversole John Nelson Aaron Zobell Daryl Fellbaum Bruce Nelson Rob Zotti Dee Findlay Craig Nelson Larry Folks Don Newton Diane Foster Dave Oehmcke Doug Freeman Joe Oldfield David Freeman John Pallesen Larry Fusselman Cory Patterson Mike Gaviotis Sam Pauli Kathy Gilbert Kent Porenta Dave Gomez Chris Prather Darla Gosar Mark Ransdell Paul Grasso Dave Rauzi Susan Grasso Shane Riding Helen Hafey Pat Robbins Randall Hall Fred Roberts Ted Hamilton Ken Routh Dave Hanks Pete Rust Norm Hargis Eric Schilt Alan Harris Otto Schnauber Don Hartley Jane Schnauber John Hay Don Schramm 43 1 Planning Team 2 Doug Miyamoto, NRCS/WACD 3 Jason Fearneyhough, Wyoming Department of Agriculture – Western Regional Program Coordinator 4 Ginger Eaton – Sweetwater County Conservation District 5 Patty Romero, Sweetwater County Conservation District 6 Annette O. France, Sweetwater County Conservation District 7 Bruce Nelson and associates – Environmental Design Engineers 8 9 Sweetwater County Conservation District Board of Supervisors and Associate Supervisors 10 Thomas Burris Lee Splett 11 Jean Dickinson Bob Slagowski 12 Mary Thoman Randy Shipman 13 Betty Wilkenson George Stephen 14

30 1 SIGNATURE PAGE 2 3 On ______the Bitter Creek/Killpecker Creek Watershed Advisory 4 Group adopted the Bitter Creek/Killpecker Creek Watershed Plan as a method for addressing the water 5 quality concerns in the Bitter Creek and Killpecker Creek Watershed. 6 ______7 Jean Dickinson, BKWAG Co-Chair Betty Wilkinson, BKWAG Co-Chair 8 9 10 The Sweetwater County Conservation District Board of Supervisors approved the Bitter Creek/ Killpecker 11 Creek Watershed Plan on ______. 12 13 ______14 Thomas Burris, Supervisor Jean Dickinson, Supervisor 15 16 ______17 Mary Thoman, Supervisor Lee Splett, Supervisor 18 19 ______20 Bob Slagowski, Supervisor 21 22 23 24 The Bitter Creek/Killpeck Creek Watershed Plan was approved by the Wyoming Department of 25 Environmental Quality. 26 27 ______28 Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality Date 29

31