OCR Text |
Show approach is prudent. Implementation of the preferred alternative may be the first step or it may be the final step in salinity management. The continuing studies under DWR's GSLEP and a few years of monitoring the effect of the causeway modification will aid DNR's decision process in reaching the desired historic salinity levels. 2.2 Account for the locations and quantities of salts in the GSL system. In light of lake salinity issues and disputes over ownership of salt in the lake system, DNR believes it is important to know the locations and amounts of GSL salts. Some locations hold relatively small quantities. An accounting of all salts in the lake system can serve as a baseline for future studies. 3.1 Develop a strategy to ensure water quality protection for the GSL ecosystem. Existing water quality narrative standards for discharges to the lake and permits are determined on a case- by- case basis. The general policy is stated as follows " to the extent feasible, no pollutants should be delivered to the lake in amounts that result in concentrations great than those already present in the lake." This policy does not prevent gradual water quality degradation over time and this general statement allows room for interpretation in regard to permit approval. Because GSL is a terminal basin pollutants to the lake will gradually increase this baseline condition over time. Salinity, temperature, lake currents, contaminants in lake sediments and many other factors play a role in altering the chemical nature and the physical conditions that might increase heavy metals bioavailability. Impacts resulting from non- point source and point source pollutants on wildlife and could impair other multiple- use management objectives. DNR would investigate options to improve the existing water quality narrative standard to ensure protection of public trust resources by adding some reasonable additions to this policy through improved coordination. One option is to change the classification for GSL to 3C or 3D during the next review period in 2002. This will affect classifications for tributaries. Nutrient loading in GSL wetlands and dynamics in the open water are not well understood. Coordination would identify management objectives to investigate nutrients, help in developing studies and in determining management response. 3.2 Determine GSL wetland policy. Federal regulations provide for the bulk of wetland protection measures and are generally adequate. On Great Salt Lake, actions in unregulated ( non- jurisdictional) wetlands and actions such as excavation, grazing, burning and chemical application that are not covered by federal regulation may affect important wetland resources. DNR wants to take advantage of the opportunity to consider these actions in a policy framework to allow an added measure of protection. 4.1 Protect public trust resources ( relates to air quality impacts). Improved coordination is needed to improve the assessment of impacts to public trust resources and for remedial response. DNR would recommend additional air quality monitoring stations to evaluate air quality trends and studies to investigate air quality impacts on wildlife ( aquatic organisms, water birds and other species). Air quality is also important in regard to resource protection and other multiple- use management objectives. Air quality degradation could alter resource allocation decisions in the 238 |