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Analysis of waste-load assimilative capacity of the Yampa River, Steamboat Springs to Hayden, Routt County, Colorado

Water-Resources Investigations Report 77-119
By: , , and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/wri77119

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Abstract

An analysis of the waste-load assimilative capacity of the Yampa River from Steamboat Springs to Hayden, Colo., a distance of 38 miles, was made during September 1975 to obtain information on the effects of projected waste loadings on this stream reach. Simulations of effects of waste loadings on streamflow quality were made using a steady-state water-quality model. The simulations were based on 7-day low-flow values with a 10-year recurrence interval and population projections for 2010. Model results for December and September streamflow conditions indicated that the recommended 1978 Colorado and 1976 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency water-quality standard of 0.02 milligram per liter for nonionized ammonia concentration would be exceeded. Model simulations also included the effect of a flow augmentation of 20 cubic feet per second from a proposed upstream reservoir. The permissible ammonia loading in the study reach could be increased approximately 25 percent with this amount of flow augmentation. Simulations of concentrations of dissolved oxygen, fecal-coliform bacteria, and nitrate nitrogen indicated that the State 's water-quality goals proposed for 1978, 1983, or 1985 would not be exceeded. (Woodard-USGS)

Suggested Citation

Bauer, D.P., Steele, T.D., and Anderson, R.D., 1978, Analysis of waste-load assimilative capacity of the Yampa River, Steamboat Springs to Hayden, Routt County, Colorado: U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources Investigations Report 77-119, vi, 69 p. :ill., maps ;26 cm., https://doi.org/10.3133/wri77119.

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Analysis of waste-load assimilative capacity of the Yampa River, Steamboat Springs to Hayden, Routt County, Colorado
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 77-119
DOI 10.3133/wri77119
Year Published 1978
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey, Water Resources Division,
Description vi, 69 p. :ill., maps ;26 cm.
Additional publication details