What is the Lake Whatcom TMDL?
During the summer of 2007, the Department of Ecology is expected to release a Total Maximum Daily Load study for Lake Whatcom. This study will include a scientific model that will determine where pollution needs to be reduced, and by how much, in order for the lake to have sufficient dissolved oxygen. After public comment, based on this study Ecology will develop a TMDL report, which will identify where pollution needs to be reduced and by how much. After E.P.A. approval and more public participation, an implementation plan will be readied. The Lake Whatcom TMDL will determine the amount of phosphorus that can be loaded, or discharged, into the lake without lowering the oxygen levels below natural levels. Natural levels are estimated by modeling oxygen levels in the lake when natural levels of phosphorus are present — that is, the levels of phosphorus prior to human activity. Once that maximum load is determined, Ecology will allocate portions of the load to 23 geographic areas of the
