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Conejo Creek
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Watershed

Calleguas Creek Watershed TMDL Development and Implementation

Since 1998, LWA has been at the forefront of water quality management in the Calleguas Creek Watershed (CCW), developing innovative solutions that balance environmental protection with the needs of diverse stakeholders.

What Sets Us Apart

  1. Long-term Commitment: Over two decades of continuous involvement, providing unparalleled local knowledge and expertise.
  2. Collaborative Approach: We bring together diverse stakeholders, from agricultural dischargers to government agencies, to create unified solutions.
  3. Comprehensive Services: From initial watershed planning to TMDL development and implementation, we provide end-to-end water quality management.
  4. Innovative Problem-Solving: We’ve pioneered new approaches to water quality monitoring, modeling, and regulatory compliance.
  5. Science-Based Advocacy: Our work has resulted in scientifically defensible TMDLs adopted without significant opposition.

Key Services and Achievements

  • Watershed Planning and Monitoring:
    • Developed and implemented the Calleguas Creek Characterization Study, setting the foundation for future water quality efforts.
    • Created an integrated, multi-pollutant TMDL monitoring program, a first of its kind in Southern California.
  • TMDL Development and Implementation:
    • Successfully developed five stakeholder-led TMDLs, all adopted by state and federal agencies.
    • Implemented innovative approaches, such as a site-specific objective for copper, resulting in improved compliance.
  • Special Studies:
    • Conducted groundbreaking research on topics like microbial source tracking and algae assessment.
    • Developed targeted studies to identify and address “hot spots” for various pollutants.
  • Regulatory Support:
    • Provided ongoing support for permit negotiations, TMDL reevaluations, and policy reviews.
    • Developed strategies for complying with complex regulatory requirements across multiple discharge types.
  • Implementation Planning:
    • Created a comprehensive implementation plan addressing all TMDLs and water quality priorities in the watershed.
    • Developed innovative approaches to address challenging pollutants like fecal indicator bacteria.
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