Combined Stream Comment Analyses - Iowa DNR

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Appendix 2

Stream Specific Public Comment Analyses

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources asked the public to help gather information which will help to assist the department when designating the rivers and streams of Iowa. Throughout the current rule making session, the public has been given the opportunity to complete recreation surveys and provide comments which help the department determine when, where, how and how often Iowan’s are using Iowa’s waterways. The department received approximately 1,907 stream specific comments from members of the public, city officials, industries, environmental organizations, and County Conservation Board employees which detailed the kinds of activities occurring in rivers and streams in their areas. Each comment was logged into a database along with the current data from the past field assessments. The comments were then analyzed by department staff. After gathering data collected from the public comments; the department was able to either support and justify the original use recommendations, or change the use assessments to reflect new information gathered from those comments. In total 47 of 194 streams that received comments will have the original stream use designation recommendations changed as a result of the public comments that were submitted to the department. All 194 public comment analyses are provided for in the appendix. After the conclusion of each use assessment, the department has included the following statement: “*See recommendation map for details”. After analyzing the data provided by the public comments along with the data that was collected in the field assessments it was concluded that some of the use assessments will not change. If a public comments analysis has determined that the use assessment will not change, a recommendation map will not be included with the analysis. The recommendation map included in the use assessment will be the same map that was included in the original documentation and can be found on the department’s website for UAAs at: (http://programs.iowadnr.gov/uaa/search.aspx) The information provided for analysis may include one or more of the following documents: Public Comments Analysis Public Lands Map(s) Recommendation Map(s) The 47 streams highlighted in yellow in the Table of Contents represent streams where the department is changing its initial stream use designation recommendations.

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Table of Contents Name of Creek Pages Table of Contents............................................................................................................. 2-6 1) Badger Creek ....................................................................................................... 7-8 2) Bear Creek (Shellsburg)(Linn/Benton).............................................................. 9-12 3) Beaver Creek (Butler/Blackhawk)................................................................... 13-17 4) Beaver Creek (Polk/Dallas/Boone).................................................................. 18-22 5) Beaver Creek (Worth/Winnebago) .................................................................. 23-25 6) Big Creek (Mt. Pleasant/Yarmouth)(Henry/Des Moines) ............................... 26-28 7) Bloody Run ...................................................................................................... 29-32 8) Bluegrass Creek .....................................................................................................33 9) Boone River ...........................................................................................................34 10) Boyer River...................................................................................................... 35-42 11) Broadhorn Creek....................................................................................................43 12) Bruce Creek ..................................................................................................... 44-45 13) Brushy Creek ................................................................................................... 46-48 14) Buckeye Creek ................................................................................................. 49-50 15) Buffalo Creek................................................................................................... 51-58 16) Burr Oak Creek (Hull)(Sioux) ...............................................................................59 17) Buttrick Creek.................................................................................................. 60-63 18) Catfish Creek ................................................................................................... 64-67 19) Cedar Creek (Lohrville/Rinard/Manson)(Calhoun/Greene) ............................ 68-71 20) Cedar Creek (Jefferson/Wapello/Van Buren).................................................. 72-77 21) Cedar Creek (Sac/Pocahontas)......................................................................... 78-81 22) Chariton River.................................................................................................. 82-90 23) Clear Creek (Iowa/Johnson) ............................................................................ 91-95 24) Cloie Branch .................................................................................................... 96-99 25) Coal Creek (Lovilia)(Monre/Mahaska) ....................................................... 100-101 26) Coal Creek (Pleasantville (Marion/Warren) ................................................ 102-104 27) Competine Creek (Knoxville)(Marion) ....................................................... 105-106 28) Competine Creek (Packwood)(Jefferson).................................................... 107-108 29) Cooper Creek .......................................................................................................109 30) Crow Creek (Jefferson)................................................................................ 110-111 31) Crow Creek (Scott) ...................................................................................... 112-118 32) Deep Creek (Jackson/Clinton) ..................................................................... 119-120 33) Deer Creek ................................................................................................... 121-122 34) Drainage Ditch 2 ..................................................................................................123 35) Drainage Ditch 3 ..................................................................................................124 36) Drainage Ditch 64 ................................................................................................125 37) Drainage Ditch 94 ................................................................................................126 38) Drainage Ditch 171 ...................................................................................... 127-130 39) Dry Run (IDOT Decorah)(Winneshiek) ..............................................................131 40) Duck Creek .................................................................................................. 132-134

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Table of Contents Name of Creek Pages 41) Dugout Creek .......................................................................................................135 42) Durion Creek................................................................................................ 136-138 43) Dutch Creek .........................................................................................................139 44) Eagle Creek.................................................................................................. 140-143 45) East Beaver Creek........................................................................................ 144-145 46) East Boyer River .......................................................................................... 146-148 47) East Branch Iowa River ............................................................................... 149-154 48) East Fork Des Moines River ........................................................................ 155-157 49) East Fork Medicine Creek ...................................................................................158 50) East Nishnabotna River................................................................................ 159-163 51) East Otter Creek...................................................................................................164 52) East Soldier River ................................................................................................165 53) Elk River ..............................................................................................................166 54) English River ............................................................................................... 167-170 55) Fenchel Creek .............................................................................................. 171-172 56) Floyd River .................................................................................................. 173-176 57) Fourmile Creek ............................................................................................ 177-178 58) Fox River ..................................................................................................... 179-181 59) Gere Creek ...........................................................................................................182 60) Gypsum Creek .....................................................................................................183 61) Hardin Creek................................................................................................ 184-188 62) Hickory Creek......................................................................................................189 63) Hogans Branch............................................................................................. 190-191 64) Honey Creek (Boone)(Boone) ..................................................................... 192-194 65) Hoosier Creek .............................................................................................. 195-196 66) Iowa River.................................................................................................... 197-199 67) Jackson Creek ......................................................................................................200 68) Lateral 4 ...............................................................................................................201 69) Linn Creek ................................................................................................... 202-203 70) Little Bear Creek (Benton)...................................................................................204 71) Little Beaver Creek (Dallas/Boone).....................................................................205 72) Little Beaver Creek (Polk) ........................................................................... 206-207 73) Little Floyd River.................................................................................................208 74) Little Maple River................................................................................................209 75) Little Rock River.......................................................................................... 210-214 76) Little Turkey River (Chickasaw/Fayette) .................................................... 215-219 77) Little Wapsipincon River (Howard/Chickasaw).......................................... 220-223 78) Lizard Creek.........................................................................................................224 79) Long Branch................................................................................................. 225-228 80) Lotts Creek (Humboldt/Kossuth)................................................................. 229-231

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Table of Contents Name of Creek Pages 81) Lux Creek..................................................................................................... 232-233 82) Mad Creek............................................................................................................234 83) Maple River ................................................................................................. 235-238 84) Maquoketa River.......................................................................................... 239-243 85) McDonald Creek.......................................................................................... 244-245 86) Mead Creek..........................................................................................................246 87) Middle Creek (Mahaska) .....................................................................................247 88) Middle Fork Grand River ............................................................................ 248-249 89) Middle Nodaway River................................................................................ 250-252 90) Middle Raccoon River ................................................................................. 253-258 91) Middle River ................................................................................................ 259-263 92) Middle Soldier River............................................................................................264 93) Milford Creek............................................................................................... 265-266 94) Mill Creek (Cherokee/O'Brien) ................................................................... 267-271 95) Moon Creek ................................................................................................. 272-273 96) Muchakinock Creek (Monroe/Mahaska) ..................................................... 274-276 97) Mud Creek (Scott)........................................................................................ 277-279 98) Mud Creek (Benton) ............................................................................................280 99) Mud Creek (Muscatine) ............................................................................... 281-283 100) Nodaway River ............................................................................................ 284-286 101) North English River ..................................................................................... 287-288 102) North Fork Maquoketa River....................................................................... 289-294 103) North Raccoon River ................................................................................... 295-300 104) North River .................................................................................................. 301-304 105) North Skunk River ....................................................................................... 305-306 106) Ocheyedan River.......................................................................................... 307-311 107) Odebolt Creek .............................................................................................. 312-314 108) Old Mans Creek ........................................................................................... 315-319 109) Otter Creek (Crawford)................................................................................ 320-321 110) Otter Creek (Warren) ...........................................................................................322 111) Otter Creek (Lyon/Osceola/Sioux) .............................................................. 323-324 112) Outlet Creek .........................................................................................................325 113) Peas Creek.................................................................................................... 326-328 114) Pike Run....................................................................................................... 329-330 115) Pine Creek (Muscatine)................................................................................ 331-332 116) Prairie Creek (Benton/Linn) ................................................................................333 117) Preston Creek ............................................................................................... 334-335 118) Quarter Section Run..................................................................................... 336-337 119) Ramsey Creek ......................................................................................................338 120) Rock Creek (Cedar) ..................................................................................... 339-342

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Table of Contents Name of Creek Pages 121) Rock Creek (Jefferson) ................................................................................ 343-344 122) Sents Creek .................................................................................................. 345-346 123) Sewer Creek (O'Brien).........................................................................................347 124) Silver Creek (Mills) ..................................................................................... 348-349 125) Silver Creek (Scott)..............................................................................................350 126) Silver Creek (Cresco)(Winneshiek/Howard).......................................................351 127) Soap Creek ................................................................................................... 352-353 128) Soldier Creek .......................................................................................................354 129) Soldier River ................................................................................................ 355-356 130) South Beaver Creek .............................................................................................357 131) South Cedar Creek ....................................................................................... 358-360 132) South Fork Catfish Creek............................................................................. 361-363 133) South Fork Chariton River........................................................................... 364-366 134) South Raccoon River ................................................................................... 367-370 135) South River .................................................................................................. 371-374 136) South Skunk River ....................................................................................... 375-376 137) Spring Branch Creek............................................................................................377 138) Spring Creek (Des Moines) ......................................................................... 378-379 139) Springbrook Creek ....................................................................................... 380-381 140) Sugar Creek (Cedar) ............................................................................................382 141) Sugar Creek (Mitchell) ........................................................................................383 142) Sugar Creek (Donnellson)(Lee)................................................................... 384-385 143) Sugar Creek (Grinnell)(Poweshiek/Jasper).................................................. 386-387 144) Sugar Creek (Waukee)(Dallas) ............................................................................388 145) Sycamore Creek ...................................................................................................389 146) Ten Mile Creek ....................................................................................................390 147) Tetes Des Mortes Creek.......................................................................................391 148) Trout Run (Trout Creek).............................................................................. 392-395 149) Turkey Creek ............................................................................................... 396-398 150) Unnamed Creek (Allerton)(Wayne) ....................................................................399 151) Unnamed Creek (Asbury)(Dubuque)...................................................................400 152) Unnamed Creek (Bloomfield)(Davis).......................................................... 401-404 153) Unnamed Creek (Blue Grass)(Scott) ...................................................................405 154) Unnamed Creek (Calmar) ....................................................................................406 155) Unnamed Creek (Cascade)(Dubuque) .................................................................407 156) Unnamed Creek (Clearview MHP)(Muscatine) ..................................................408 157) Unnamed Creek (Cleghorn)(Cherokee)...............................................................409 158) Unnamed Creek (Cono-Christian School)(Buchanan) ........................................410 159) Unnamed Creek (Corydon)(Wayne)....................................................................411 160) Unnamed Creek (County Care Center)(Shelby) ..................................................412

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Table of Contents Name of Creek Pages 161) Unnamed Creek (DNR Decorah Hatchery)(Winneshiek) ........................... 413-415 162) Unnamed Creek (Donahue)(Scott) ......................................................................416 163) Unnamed Creek (Epworth)(Dubuque).................................................................417 164) Unnamed Creek (Golden Oval)(Winnebago) ......................................................418 165) Unnamed Creek (Grinnell)(Poweshiek) ..............................................................419 166) Unnamed Creek (Humeston)(Wayne) ......................................................... 420-424 167) Unnamed Creek (IDOT Malcom )(Poweshiek)...................................................425 168) Unnamed Creek (Lake Mills)(Winnebago................................................... 426-427 169) Unnamed Creek (Lenox).............................................................................. 428-431 170) Unnamed Creek (Lohrville)(Calhoun).................................................................432 171) Unnamed Creek (M&W MHP)(Muscatine) ........................................................433 172) Unnamed Creek (Meriden)(Cherokee) ........................................................ 434-435 173) Unnamed Creek (Montezuma)(Poweshiek).........................................................436 174) Unnamed Creek (New Sharon)(Mahaska)...........................................................437 175) Unnamed Creek (Parkview Sanitary)(Scott) .......................................................438 176) Unnamed Creek (Pleasantville)(Marion).............................................................439 177) Unnamed Creek (Spillville) .................................................................................440 178) Unnamed Creek (Walcott N&S)(Scott) ...............................................................441 179) Unnamed Creek (Waukee)(Dallas)......................................................................442 180) Unnamed Creek (Woodward)(Dallas) .................................................................443 181) Unnamed Creek #1 (Hull)(Sioux)........................................................................444 182) Unnamed Creek (2) (Hull) ...................................................................................445 183) Unnamed Creek #1 (Inwood)(Lyon) ........................................................... 446-447 184) Unnamed Creek (2) (Inwood)(Lyon)........................................................... 448-449 185) Wapsinonoc Creek ....................................................................................... 450-451 186) Wapsipinicon River ..................................................................................... 452-456 187) West Branch Wapsinonoc Creek ................................................................. 457-459 188) West Buttrick Creek..................................................................................... 460-463 189) West Fork Little Sioux River....................................................................... 464-467 190) West Nishnabotna River .............................................................................. 468-474 191) White Breast Creek ...................................................................................... 475-480 192) Whitewater Creek ........................................................................................ 481-485 193) Wildwood Creek ..................................................................................................486 194) Willow Creek (Carroll/Greene/Guthrie) ...................................................... 487-493

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Public Comment Analysis

Stream: Badger Creek Affected Facility: Cumming (569) Dates: Field assessment - 11/9/06 Public Comments: One survey was returned for Badger Creek from the Warren County Conservation Board Director. The survey stated that the area of our 569-a site carries enough water to support swimming, there is frequent diversion from the Great Western Trail, people canoe, kayak, or tube immediately downstream of site 569-a and that fishing, seining or trapping of minnows was frequent in the stream. Two other surveys were returned, but neither was within the assessed portion of Badger Creek. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Badger Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). While the comment suggests frequent recreation and abundant water in Badger Creek, they are not consistent with the findings in the field assessment. During the field assessment of site 569-a, there was no sign of any recreational uses in the area and the average depth of the stream was less than 12 inches with the maximum depth measuring 14 inches (See picture). The additional information of the survey will not result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Badger Creek will remain as Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the mouth (NW1/4, S33, T77N, R25W, Warren Co.) to the confluence with Unnamed Creek (NE1/4, S30, T77N, R25W, Warren Co.).* Site 569-a Bridge Views

Bridge View Looking Upstream Bridge View Looking Downstream *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Bear Creek Affected Facility: Shellsburg (70) and Newhall (399) Dates: Field assessment - 6/20/06, Survey(s)/Interview(s) – 12/07 Public Comments: County Conservation Phone Survey/Mailing A recreational use phone survey concerning the segment of Bear Creek flowing through the Palo Marsh Natural Area was conducted with a Linn County Conservation Board employee. The survey indicated the following: Swimming hasn’t been observed and is an infrequent occurrence if it occurs at all, and children playing in or near the stream has been observed but was unsure to what extent the activity takes place. A recreation survey was returned by an employee of the Benton County Conservation Board. The survey indicated the following: Swimming occurs occasionally within the recommended Class A3 segment of the creek; children playing in or near the stream during an Iowa Water study with Shellsburg 5th grade students in the month of September and children playing in the summer and early fall frequently (both within the recommended Class A3 segment); and fishing has been observed in the Class A2 segment, and has observed someone releasing fish in the stream. Online Survey An online survey was received by a resident of Iowa. The survey indicated they have observed someone trapping minnows a few times in the previous year but had not observed this activity occur again. The area of the creek specified for this survey was not found. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Bear Creek from the mouth to the confluence with Unnamed Creek #2 and from the confluence with Unnamed Creek #1 to the confluence with Wildcat Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence and information to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The initial assessment also concluded that a Children’s Recreation (Class A3) designation was appropriate for Bear Creek from the confluence with Unnamed Creek #2 to the confluence with Unnamed Creek #1. Two surveys indicated children’s recreation takes place within the assessed reach of the creek. One survey pertained to the segment of the creek recommended for Class A3 Children’s Recreation. The other comment was specific to the area of the creek flowing through Palo Marsh Natural Area and stated children’s recreation occurs but was unsure

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to the extent of use. An assessment site (70-1) was located just upstream of this location. The only evidence of any recreation was a footprint found on a bridge piling. Although children have been observed in the creek at the Palo Marsh Natural Area, it is difficult to determine if the activities are taking place at a frequency to warrant a Class A3 Children’s Recreation Use designation. Public comments did not provide any additional information that would modify the original recommendation. Therefore, the department’s recommended designation for Bear Creek will remain as follows: Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreation from the mouth (NE ¼, S21, T84N, R8W, Linn Co.) to the confluence with Unnamed Creek #2 (SW ¼, NE ¼, S14, T84N, R9W, Benton Co.).* Class A3 Children’s Recreation use designation from the confluence with Unnamed Creek #2 (SW ¼, NE ¼, S14, T84N, R9W, Benton Co.) to the confluence with Unnamed Creek #1 (NE ¼, S15, T84N, R9W, Benton Co.).* Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreational use designation from the confluence with Unnamed Creek #1 (NE ¼, S15, T84N, R9W, Benton Co.) to the confluence with Wildcat Creek (S5/8, T84N, R9W, Benton Co.).* *See recommendation map It should be noted that the department continually updates water quality standards for Iowa. This can include follow-up studies regarding Use Attainability Analyses to incorporate the latest and any new information to ensure the uses of Iowa’s waters are reflected appropriately in the Water Quality Standards.

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Stream: Beaver Creek Affected Facility: Aplington (9) New Hartford (78) Dates: Field assessment – 5/10/06 and 11/03/06 Public Comments: Eight public comments were received for Beaver Creek. A survey was returned from the Butler County Conservation Board. It was stated that kids have been observed swimming below the dam next to the Beaver Meadows Recreation area. Tubing above the dam next to the Beaver Meadows Recreation Area was observed one time in the past. Fishing above and below the dam has been observed numerous occasions as well as at the Sinclair Elevator site. A follow-up phone interview with the Butler County Conservation Board was conducted regarding the Beaver Meadows County Park and Moore’s Access. At Beaver Meadows County Park, children were said to be recreating in the stream once a week within the park. Canoeing, kayaking or tubing takes place about once a month, and fishing takes place daily while seining for minnows is a rare occasion. At Moore’s Access, fishing and seining takes place once a week during the summer months. A phone interview with the Blackhawk County Conservation Board was conducted regarding Beaver Creek Access. It was stated that wading takes place and that no children have ever been observed in the area. Fishing, seining and trapping of minnows were all said to take place on Beaver Creek. A survey was returned from a public official. It stated that that canoeing, kayaking, or tubing has taken place from New Hartford to the mouth at the Cedar River once in the last five years. A survey was returned from the general public regarding Beaver Creek just north of the City of New Hartford. It stated that children play in the shallow water once a week during the summer looking for frogs and minnows. It also stated that people have been observed fishing on a fairly regular basis during warm weather. A survey was returned for Beaver Creek from the general public. It stated that swimming or other water play where you might ingest water takes place near New Hartford during most summer days. It also stated that children play in the stream, tubing takes place and fishing, seining, or trapping for minnows takes place all summer. A frequency of these uses was not given. A survey was returned for Beaver Creek from the general public. It stated that in the past two and a half years fishing has been observed once.

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A survey was returned for Beaver Creek from the general public. It stated that swimming, children’s play, canoeing or kayaking, tubing, fishing, seining, or trapping for minnows all take place along Beaver Creek near Parkersburg. A frequency or exact location was not given for the activities listed. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded a Secondary Contact Recreational use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Beaver Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The Butler County Conservation Board stated that children recreate in Beaver Creek once a week within the Beaver Meadows County Park. During the departments field assessment mud writing and footprints were found under the bridge at the west side of the park. A survey from the general public also stated that the portion of Beaver Creek near Parkersburg is used for recreational uses. The Department feels that the amount of evidence found during the field assessment, in addition to the comments received from the Butler County Conservation Board and the close proximity of Beaver Meadows County Park to the City of Parkersburg is adequate evidence to warrant a Class A3 Children’s Recreational Use designation for this portion of Beaver Creek. Within Beaver Creek Access areas, it was noted that shallow water wading takes place, but no children have been observed in the areas. This activity is consistent with the recommended Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreational Use. For the stream segment near New Hartford, comments received from the general public stated that children recreate in the stream during often during the summer. During the field assessment graffiti and a foot path was found under the bridge at site 78-3 which is just to the north of the city of New Hartford. The flows of the stream during the field assessment were noted to be elevated approximately one foot. At normal base flow conditions this portion of the stream is not expected to provide enough flow to support uses consistent with Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational Uses, but may still have the potential to attract children’s recreation. The Department feels that the amount of evidence found during the field assessment, in addition to the comments received from the general public is adequate evidence to warrant a Class A3 Children’s Recreational Use designation for this portion of Beaver Creek.

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It was stated that portions of Beaver Creek were canoed or kayaked, but due to the relatively low flow within Beaver Creek throughout (average depth of the stream is less than 13 inches at base flow conditions), it is likely that these activities take place during periods of elevated flows. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below.

• Class A2, Secondary Contact Recreational Use designation from the mouth (SW ¼ of S34, T90N, R14W, Black Hawk Co.) to the confluence of Unnamed Creek (NE ¼ of NW ¼, S34, T90N, R15W, Butler Co.)

• Class A3, Children’s Recreational Use designation from the confluence of

Unnamed Creek (NE ¼ of NW ¼, S34, T90N, R15W, Butler Co.) to the confluence of Unnamed Creek (NW ¼ of SW ¼, S28, T90N, R15W, Butler Co.)

• Class A2, Secondary Contact Recreational Use designation from the confluence

of Unnamed Creek (NW ¼ of SW ¼, S28, T90N, R15W, Butler Co.) to the West Line of the NE ¼, S30, T90N, R16W, Butler Co.

• Class A3, Children’s Recreational Use designation from the East Line of the NW

¼, S30, T90N, R16W, Butler Co. to the West Line, S80, T90N, R16W, Butler Co.

• Class A2, Secondary Contact Recreational Use designation from the West Line, S80, T90N, R16W, Butler Co. to the West Line S21, T90N, R17W, Butler Co.

*See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Beaver Creek Affected Facilities: City of Granger (84) City of Grimes (119) Northern Natural Gas Co. – Ogden Station (315) McCreary Community Building Municipal Swimming Pool (317) City of Ogden (401) City of Woodward (422) Camp Dodge (498) Iowa DOT Maintenance Garage – Perry (585) Dates: Field assessments – 11/9/05, 4/26/06 and 10/4/06 Public Comments: There were a total of 21 comments received for the assessed portion of Beaver Creek. One survey was received for Beaver Creek from an employee of the Polk County Conservation Board. The survey stated that children are occasionally seen in the stream within Johnston. Also canoeing has been observed between Camp Dodge and the Des Moines River. Fishing near the mouth is also noted as being common. IOWATER submitted 67 surveys completed during snapshot events at 22 sites along Beaver Creek. 44 of these snapshots were done within the recommended Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreational Use segment of Beaver Creek. The snapshots stated that the following activities were observed (number in parentheses is number of times observed within the recommended Class A2 segment): canoeing five times (two), wading four times (once), hunting/trapping three times (three), fishing seven times (three), and kids play four times (zero). Evidence of kids play was found during one additional snapshot. One public comment was received stating that wide age groups of children use the stream, at Highway 141 and up and down the stream, for swimming on a weekly basis. Also kayaking and canoeing also takes place when water levels permit. The same person submitted an online survey stating that one or more of the following activities: swimming, children’s play in or near the stream, canoeing and/or kayaking occur at the following locations near Bouton: private property on Quinlan Ave, O Ave, Highway 169 and 130th Street. One public comment was received stating that this person and his family have waded in, floated in and/or canoed in Beaver Creek. The exact locations of these activities were not given. One public comment stated that they had canoed Beaver Creek, but a specific segment of the stream was not given.

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Four public comments were received from one person whom stated that they had observed several teenage boys swimming in Beaver Creek and that their own grandchildren use the stream several times in the summer. They had also noted that paddling takes place on this stream. These activities were noted to have taken place within the city limits of Johnston. Another comment was received from this individual stating that a group of young people (Class Age 12-15) were taking part in water activities just north of Johnston city limits. Three young children submitted surveys stating that they have recreated in the stream or have seen people in the stream south of NW 62nd and west of Merle Hay Road. Two public comments stated that Beaver Creek near Berkley has no recreational use. It was stated that the stream was a mud bottom, shallow creek that has very little appeal to swimmers, boaters, or fisherman and that in most years it dries up in August or has no significant flow. A public comment was received stating that swimming, children playing in or near the stream, canoeing/kayaking and fishing all occur on Beaver Creek but specific locations were not given. One online survey stated that swimming, occasional children’s play in or near the stream, canoeing/kayaking, and fishing take place near R30 and F31 intersection. One online survey stated that canoeing/kayaking takes place from the confluence of Little Beaver creek to Quinlan Avenue. Also swimming west of Woodward was mentioned to have happened one time in 2007. One survey received stated that children’s swimming/wading has been observed south of Granger on Xavier Ave. Also canoeing at least twice per year was noted. Fishing was also mentioned to have been observed. Seven additional public comments were received stating that swimming, children playing in or near the stream, canoeing/kayaking, fishing/minnow seining/ minnow trapping and a combination of the above occur regularly within the city limits of Johnston. Analysis:

Beaver Creek - Site 84-7 - North of Hwy 141 (assessment on 9/11/05)

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The previous assessment concluded that a Children’s Recreational Use (Class A3) designation was appropriate for Beaver Creek from the mouth to the North Line S2, T79N, R25W, Polk Co. due to the urban/residential surrounding conditions and the increased accessibility of the stream. A Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation for Beaver Creek from the North Line S2, T79N, R25W, Polk Co. to the confluence with Unnamed Creek was also recommended due to the lack of flow to completely fulfill what is considered Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). Several of the public comments received were directed toward the segment of Beaver Creek which runs through the city limits of Johnston. These comments all support the recommended Children’s Recreation (Class A3) designation of Beaver Creek. The comment received for the area near Bouton stated that children play in the stream on a regular basis, swimming, and canoeing/kayaking all take place. During the field assessment two of the four locations mentioned were visited. At one of the locations graffiti was found on the underside of the bridge, but no other signs of recreational uses were found. Due to the lack of flow (average depth was 18 inches) within Beaver Creek swimming is unlikely, but wading is possible. The evidence found and comments received does not indicate that children’s play occurs at a frequency which would warrant a Class A3 Children’s Recreational Use designation in the area near Bouton. There were 44 snapshots taken at 14 IOWATER sites along the segment of Beaver Creek that is recommended Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreational Use. Of the 44 snapshots, canoeing was observed twice at two different sites. At one of these sites wading was also observed during the same snapshot event. During different snapshot events at the same location these activities were not found. There were no children observed recreating in the stream during any of the snapshots nor was there any evidence of children’s play found. Hunting/trapping and fishing were also observed within this segment of Beaver Creek which is consistent with the Departments recommendation of Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreational Use designation. In the Woodward area it was mentioned that once in 2007 swimming was observed. Although children’s play may be taking place in the stream it is difficult to determine if the activities are taking place at a frequency to warrant a Class A3 Children’s Recreational Use designation at this time. One comment was received stating that no recreation was occurring on Beaver Creek. Although no specific location was noted it was stated that the area the person was addressing was near the city of Berkley. Two comments were received for the Granger area. The area was mentioned to have Children’s Recreation, canoeing/kayaking and fishing but it was stated that these activities were occasional or the frequency was not noted. Aerial photography of the area shows that it a rural area with no residences within a close proximity to the stream.

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Although children may occasionally recreate in the stream it is not felt to be at a frequency that would warrant a Class A3 Children’s Recreational Use designation. It should be noted that the Department continually updates the water quality standards for Iowa. This can include follow-up studies regarding Use Attainability Analyses to incorporate latest and any new information to ensure the uses of Iowa’s waters are reflected appropriately in the Water Quality Standards. The comments received for Beaver Creek provided additional information that would support the recommended designations. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Beaver Creek will remain as Children’s Recreational Use (Class A3) from the mouth to the North Line S2, T79N, R25W, Polk Co. and Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the North Line S2, T79N, R25W, Polk Co. to the confluence with Unnamed Creek (S29, T84N, R28W, Boone Co.). * *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Beaver Creek Affected Facility: Lake Mills (530) Dates: Field assessment – 5/17/06, 7/11/06 and 8/11/06 Public Comments: During the field assessment on 5/17/06, a local resident was interviewed at site 530-2. The resident stated that, to his knowledge, no one has been using the stream at this location, but he also mentioned that another family living nearby may have used the stream once in the past. A postcard, which was left at a residence near site 530-3, was returned stating that the residents children used to swim and play in the stream but no recent activities have taken place. In the past a neighbor has canoed Beaver Creek and one of the kids has tubed in the stream. One survey was returned for Beaver Creek from a Worth County Conservation Board employee. The survey stated that the only recreational use that takes place on Beaver Creek is fishing, seining, or trapping of minnows at the mouth during the spring and fall months. One survey was returned for Beaver Creek from the Winnebago County Conservation Board employee. The survey stated that there were no known recreational uses taking place in Beaver Creek within the assessed reach. One survey was returned for Beaver Creek from an employee of the Rice Lake Wildlife Unit. The survey state that the only recreational use that takes place on Beaver Creek within the Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area is occasional minnow seining when flows permit. A survey from the general public stated that children were observed playing a couple of times in June/July 2006 in or near the stream at the bridge crossing of Apple Ave. Fishing, seining, or trapping for minnows was also noted to have occurred 2 times in 2006. Six other comments were returned from the general public. These comments noted that the stream was being used for recreational purposes such as wading, fishing, swimming, canoeing, minnow/crawdad trapping, and kids play, but specific locations and the frequencies of these activities were not given. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Beaver Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the

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reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The six public comments received did not give a specific location or frequencies for the activities. During the field assessment no evidence of these activities taking place was found at any of the sampling locations. Although children may be recreating in the stream at times the frequency of these activities are not felt to warrant a Class A3 Children’s Recreational Use designation. The postcard that was received stated that children have played in the stream in the past but no frequency of the activities was given. No evidence of recreational activities was found during the field assessment.

Site 530-2 Bridge View Looking Upstream & Site 530-4 Bridge View Looking Upstream Three comments were received from public officials who manage public lands that Beaver Creek flows through. The public officials stated that recreational activities were limited to those associated with fishing, seining or trapping of minnows. The two remaining comments were concerning the same location. One commented that to his knowledge the bridge crossing was not being used for recreational uses, while the other commented that they had seen children recreating a couple of times and fishing, seining or trapping for minnows two times. During the field assessment there was no evidence found of any uses taking place at this location. After review, the comments received for Beaver Creek did not provide any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Beaver Creek will remain as Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the mouth (S34, T98N, R22W, Worth Co.) to the Rice Lake outlet (S19, T99N, R22W, Worth Co.).* *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Big Creek Affected Facility: City of Mount Pleasant (East) WWTP (18)

City of New London WWTP (230) Green Valley Mobile Home Court (95) Henry County Sanitary Landfill (2)

Dates: Field assessment – 3/27/06 & 3/28/06, Phone interviews - Dec. 07/ Jan. 08 Public Comments: There were 3 surveys received for the assessed segment of Big Creek. Two surveys were submitted by the general public. The surveys noted that canoeing occurs several times a year. The surveys also noted that fishing occurs at numerous bridges on the creek. No specific locations were given. No other recreational uses were noted in these surveys. One survey was submitted by the Henry County Conservation Board. The survey pertained to Big Creek within the Big Creek Park. The comments stated that there are no known recreational uses taking place within the park. Analysis: The initial department recommendation concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Big Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence and information to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). (see previous recommendation map). The depth criteria guidelines used by the department to help determine if Primary Contact Recreational use (Class A1) is attainable typically will exclude streams that are not able to support a Class A1 use due to the overall lack of flow needed to support activities that result in direct and prolonged contact with the water, involving considerable risk of ingesting appreciable quantities of water sufficient to pose a health hazard. While these guidelines are effective in most situations, there are cases where a stream demonstrates that it can support the Class A1 use despite the lack of flow that typically distinguishes a stream that can support Primary Contact Recreational uses. The comments from the general public and local officials have indicated that multiple recreational uses occur within Big Creek; although, the department did not observe any recreational use on Big Creek during the field assessment in 2006. The comments received describe the occurrence of activities consistent with all three of Iowa’s recreational use designations. While no specific location for the noted recreational uses were given, the comments note that canoeing and fishing occurs on a regular basis in Big Creek. The creek had maximum depth issues at sites (95-3, 95-4, and 18-3) and had average depths over 18

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inches at either the upstream or downstream assessment site at sites (95-1, 95-3, 95-4, 18-1, 18-3, and 18-4). While Big Creek was close to the A1 Primary Contact Recreation designation based on depths alone, the initial designation of Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreation for Big Creek was suggested due to a lack of evidence of recreation use and observed uses. Big Creek was previously designated Class A3 Children’s Recreation from the mouth to the confluence with Brandywine Creek. The creek was then designated Class A2 from Brandywine Creek to the confluence with Lawrence Creek. Recreational uses consistent with Class A1 were noted throughout the assessed portion of Big Creek. It should be noted that the Department continually updates the water quality standards for Iowa. This can include follow-up studies regarding Use Attainability Analyses to incorporate latest and any new information to ensure the uses of Iowa’s waters are reflected appropriately in the Water Quality Standards. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below.

- Class A1, Primary Contact Recreation from the mouth of Big Creek (S19, T70N, R5W, Henry County) to the confluence with Lawrence Creek (S5, T71N, R5W, Henry County).*

* See recommendation map

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Stream: Bloody Run Affected Facility: Diamond Eagle Village (168) Dates: Field assessment – 10/26/06 and 11/17/07 Phone interviews - Dec.

07/ Jan. 08 Public Comments: A citizen sent in an email stating that swimming occurs in Bloody Run. No specific location was given for this activity. The department contacted the Clayton County Conservation Board, the managing authority of the public use areas near Bloody Run, to acquire information regarding the recreational activities that have occurred in each particular public land. The Clayton County Conservation Board employee stated that wading had been witnessed in Bloody Run Park in the assessed reach. Children’s play and fishing are also activities that have been witnessed occurring here. Canoeing, kayaking, or tubing also occurs when flows are elevated near the Mississippi River. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Bloody run due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The depth criteria guidelines used by the department to help determine if Primary Contact Recreational Use (Class A1) is attainable typically will exclude streams that are not able to support a Class A1 use due to the overall lack of flow needed to support activities that result in direct and prolonged contact with the water, involving considerable risk of ingesting appreciable quantities of water sufficient to pose a health hazard. While these guidelines are effective in most situations, there are cases where a stream demonstrates that it can support the Class A1 use despite the lack of flow that typically distinguishes a stream that can support Primary Contact Recreational uses. The departments initial recommendation noted that sites 168-a and 168-aa possessed adequate average depths to support the Class A1 uses at those sites, however those averages were not maintained over 50% of the assessed reach as a whole. While Bloody Run did not meet the depth guidelines in full, the fact that these sites meet the average depths requirement at this location serve to support the public comments received at these locations.

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The comments from the general public and local officials have indicated that multiple recreational uses occur in Bloody Run; although the department did not observe any evidence of recreational use outside of Bloody Run Park during the field assessment in 2006 and 2007. The comments received describe the occurrence of activities consistent with all three of Iowa’s recreational use designations. The public comments received for Bloody Run in addition to some adequate depths at the assessed locations have described that the segment from the mouth to the Railroad Crossing above Bloody Run Park does serves to support Primary Contact Recreation despite the marginal flows. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below.

- Class A1, Primary Contact Recreation from the mouth (NE portion of Basil Giard Claim No. 1, Clayton County) to the Railroad Crossing above Bloody Run County Park (E 1/3 of Basil Giard Claim No. 1, Clayton County). *


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Stream: Bluegrass Creek Affected Facility: Audubon (397) Dates: Field assessment - 10/2/06 & 10/16/06 Public Comments: One survey was returned for Bluegrass Creek from a private citizen. The survey stated as a child they fished and trapped the creek. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Bluegrass Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). This was the only comment received for Bluegrass Creek. The activity was noted to take place in the past with no information regarding current recreational uses, specific location, or frequency of use in Bluegrass Creek. The comments received for Bluegrass Creek did not provide any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Bluegrass Creek will remain as Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the mouth (S14, T79N, R35W, Audubon County) to United States Highway 71 (S28, T80N, R35W, Audubon County).* *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Boone River Affected Facility: Corwith (94), Thor (764), Webster City (435), Eagle Grove (535),

VanDiest (325), Ag Processing Energy Center (292), Ag Processing Eagle Grove (293)

Dates: Field assessment – 5/18/06, 5/19/06, 11/1/06 Public Comments: There was a total of 30 surveys returned (28 from the general public and 2 from Conservation Board Employees) for the Boone River. Of the 30 completed surveys, 22 of them indicated that they have recreated, or have observed recreation occuring in general locations throughiout the middle and lower segments of the Boone River. There were 7 surveys completed which did not reference a specific location in which they had either recreated or observed recreation occuring. There was one survey completed by a County Conservation Board employee (Hancock County) that stated he has an Iowater monitoring site near Corwith, however has not witnessed swimming, fishing, trapping, canoeing, or other recreational activities at this location. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Primary Contact Recreational Use (Class A1) was appropriate for Boone River from the mouth to the confluence with Middle Branch Boone River due to the overall depth and the evidence of recreational uses found. Also Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Boone River from the confluence with Middle Branch Boone River to the confluence with Drainage Ditch 10 due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). None of the information provided by the surveys, either from the general public or by County Conservation Board employees, provided any information for the section of river being considered for Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreation. The comments received for Boone River pertained to the recommended Class A1 segment and therefore, provided additional information which supports the department’s original recommendation based on the findings in our field assessments and will not result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Boone River will remain as Primary Contact Recreational Use (Class A1) from the mouth from Highway 17 (Brigg Woods Road) to the confluence with Middle Branch Boone River (S2, T93N, R26W, Wright Co.) and Class A2 Secondary Recreational use designation will apply from the confluence with Middle Branch Boone River (S2, T93N, R26W, Wright Co.) to the confluence with Drainage Ditch 10 (S29, T95N, R26W, Hancock Co.).

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Stream: Boyer River Affected Facility: Denison Municipal (83), Denison Water Plant (149), Agrium US

Inc. (309), Kiron (421), IDOT Missouri Valley (578), IDOT Denison (620), Amaizing Energy (648), Westside (672), Wall Lake (777)

Dates: Field assessment – 9/10/05, 9/11/05, & 10/17/06 Public Comments: There were five surveys completed by the general public and four surveys completed by County Conservation Board employees (Sac, Crawford and Pottawattamie counties). The surveys stated that there were various areas through the entire stretch of the Boyer River that have canoeing, tubing, fishing, trapping, and ATV use. The surveys submitted by the Sac County Conservation Board stated that children’s play and swimming/wading has never been observed because of the steep banks on the river. The comments also stated that minimal canoeing takes place on Boyer River in Sac County between Reiff County Park and Eden Prairie Recreation area. Fishing and trapping were not very frequent, but has occurred at various bridge crossings. The surveys submitted by the Crawford County Conservation Board stated that children’s play and swimming/wading has never been observed in the Crawford county portion of the river. The comments also stated canoeing and tubing takes place throughout Boyer River in Crawford County and especially common between the cities of Logan, Dunlap, Dow City and Deloit. Fishing and trapping is frequent occurrences at various bridge crossings between Boyer and Dow City. One of four surveys submitted by the general public two of the surveys stated that wading does take place at the Highway 30 bridge crossing (near site 83-7) south of Dunlap. Two of the surveys stated that canoeing or kayaking has been witnessed at the Highway 30 bridge south of Dunlap and between the cities of Boyer and Denison. Analysis: The initial department recommendation concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for (the assessed) 95 miles of the Boyer River due to the lack of flow (from the mouth, at the Missouri River, (Pottawattamie Co.) to the confluence of an unnamed creek (SE ¼, SW ¼, S05, T89N, R37W, Sac Co.)). throughout the segment which would completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). (see previous recommendation map). The depth criteria guidelines used by the department to help determine if Primary Contact Recreational use (Class A1) is attainable typically will exclude streams that are not able

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to support a Class A1 use due to the overall lack of flow needed to support activities that result in direct and prolonged contact with the water, involving considerable risk of ingesting appreciable quantities of water sufficient to pose a health hazard. While these guidelines are effective in most situations, there are cases where a stream demonstrates that it can support the Class A1 use despite the lack of flow that typically distinguishes a stream that can support Primary Contact Recreational uses. The comments from the general public and local officials have indicated that multiple recreational uses occur within the Boyer River. Seven of the nine surveys returned gave a specific location in which recreation was occurring. Of the surveys completed with site specific locations within the proposed Class A2 section only one had stated they have participated in or witnessed wading or swimming in the river while seven surveys stated that canoeing and kayaking have been witnessed at various locations within the assessed reach. The department uses Iowa’s Fish and Canoe guide while researching the public comments. The guide helps to support claims of canoeing or kayaking streams and rivers in Iowa, the Boyer River is not listed as one of Iowa’s Canoe routes, however this does not mean that canoeing or kayaking is not occurring on these sections of streams. The Crawford County Conservation Board maintains four canoe accesses throughout Crawford County. The stream may be too shallow to completely support Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational uses throughout the entire 95 miles at base flow conditions, however surveys returned to the department made reference to activities consistent with Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational uses that were participated in or witnessed in portions of the river throughout the summer. There were also other uses observed such as ATV tracks, fishing line, and fire pits which would help to support Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreational Use Designation for other portions of the river. The department assessed a total of thirteen sites along the Boyer River. Of the measurements taken on the Boyer River, 5 of the 26 measurements were at or above the 19 inch average depth and 2 of the 26 measurements were at or above the 39 inch maximum depth that are considered to be able to support Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational Use. It can be concluded that while there may be sites in the approximately 95 mile stretch of river that can be canoed or kayaked, it is not expected to be a common occurrences throughout the entire assessed segment because of the lack of flow or water present in certain areas. The surveys returned to the department described recreational uses such as canoeing and kayaking near survey sites 309-B, 309-C, 83-4, 83-5, 83-6, and 83-7. The surveys suggested that these activities may only occur on a minimal basis. The depths at the assessment sites on the river range from 6 to 20 inches average depth and 5 to 36 inches maximum depths. While the Boyer River did not meet the depth guidelines in full, activities consistent with Primary Contact Recreational (Class A1) uses have been described at specific segments

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of the Boyer River to occur throughout the summer. The department feels that because of the uses associated with this segment (frequent canoeing) it can be concluded that the Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational Designation would be appropriate for some portions of the Boyer River despite the marginal flows found during the original assessment. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below. Class A1 Primary Contact Recreation:

• From the mouth, at the Missouri River, (Pottawattamie Co.) to the bridge crossing at D Ave (N. Line, S23, T85N, R38W Sac Co.).

• From the bridge crossing at 250th St. (S. Line, S16, T88N, R37W Crawford Co.) to confluence with Unnamed Tributary (SE1/4, SW1/4, S05, T89N, R37W Sac. Co.)

Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreation:

• From the bridge crossing at D Ave. (N. Line, S23, T85N, R38W Sac Co.) to

bridge crossing at 250th St. (S. Line, S16, T88N, R37W Crawford Co.)

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Stream: Broadhorn Creek Affected Facility: Truro (474) Dates: Field assessment - 7/6/2006, 7/7/2006, & 10/31/2006 Public Comments: One survey was returned for Broadhorn Creek from a Warren County Conservation Board employee. The survey stated that fishing, seining, or trapping of minnows was a frequent use in Broadhorn Creek. No specific locations for these activities were given. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that no recreational use is appropriate for Broadhorn Creek from the confluence with an unnamed creek (S1, T74N, R26W, Madison County) to the Truro wastewater treatment plant outfall (S15, T74N, R26W, Madison County) due to the absence of flows or water and Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Broadhorn Creek from the mouth (S3, T74N, R25W, Warren County) to the confluence with an unnamed creek (S1, T74N, R26W, Madison County) due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The comments received for Broadhorn Creek serve to further support the department’s original recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Broadhorn Creek will remain as no recreational use from the confluence with an unnamed creek (S1, T74N, R26W, Madison County) to the Truro wastewater treatment plant outfall (S15, T74N, R26W, Madison County) and Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the mouth (S3, T74N, R25W, Warren County) to the confluence with an unnamed creek (S1, T74N, R26W, Madison County).* *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Bruce Creek Affected Facility: Associated Milk Producers, Inc. (551) Dates: Field assessment – 9/28/06 and 10/27/06 Public Comments: Two surveys were returned for Bruce Creek from the Clayton County Conservation Board. The surveys stated that there were no known recreational uses taking place in Bruce Creek other than possibly some wading, minnow seining/trapping, camping and fishing in the assessed reach. One comment was received from the public saying that Camp EWALU uses the stream for “creek stomping” and anglers wade in the stream. A phone survey was conducted with an employee of Camp EWALU. The employee stated that “creek stomping” was conducted on the Maquoketa River, and campers generally stayed within the immediate camp area. If access to Bruce Creek has taken place it was not very often. They had no other knowledge of any recreational uses taking place on Bruce Creek. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Bruce Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The activities mentioned by the Clayton County Conservation board are consistent with the types of activities that may occur on a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) stream. The comment from the public stating “creek stomping” was taking place in Bruce Creek is not considered to be pertinent, based on the information received from Camp EWALU, as it was discovered to occur on the Maquoketa River. The comments received for Bruce Creek did not provide any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Bruce Creek will remain as Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the mouth (S19/30 Line, T91N, R6W, Clayton Co.) to the confluence with an Unnamed Creek (NE ¼, NE ¼, S21, T91N, R7W, Fayette Co.)).* *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Brushy Creek Affected Facility: City of Vincent (805)

Koch Nitrogen Company (50) Dates: Field assessment – 10/03/06, 10/04/06 and 10/17/06 Public Comments: A total of four comments were submitted for Brushy Creek. One survey was returned for Brushy Creek from a Webster County Conservation Board employee. The survey stated that Brushy Creek Lake has swimmers daily and that children play in portions of the lake. A frequency of children’s use was not given. It also stated that canoeing, kayaking, or tubing and fishing takes place regularly in Brushy Creek but it was not stated whether these activities were taking place upstream or downstream of Brushy Creek Lake. A phone interview was conducted with the Brushy Creek State Recreation Area Park Manager. It was stated that the lake and the portion of Brushy Creek downstream of the lake were often used for swimming, children’s play and fishing when flows and weather permitted. The frequency of these uses were noted to depend on the water levels as well as the weather. An email was received from the general public that stated that they have used Brushy Creek, along with other streams in Iowa, for recreation such as wading and kids play. A location of these activities was not given. An interview of a local resident was conducted during the field assessment at site 805-3. The resident stated that they had no knowledge of recreational activities in the area. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded a Secondary Contact Recreational use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Brushy Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The comments from the Webster County Conservation Board stated that canoeing, kayaking or tubing was occurring on Brushy Creek, but it was not specified where the canoeing was taking place. During the field assessment the average depth of the stream, upstream of Brushy Creek Lake, was less than 18 inches. Portions of the stream had depths less than 6 inches. Due to the lack of flow upstream of the lake it is possible that the canoeing, kayaking or tubing was taking place in Brushy Creek downstream of the lake, which is not within the assessed reach.

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The park manager at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area stated that the activities they knew of were taking place along the banks of the lake and downstream of the lake dam. Therefore the comments pertained to the stream segments that are recommended Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational Use or are downstream of the assessed reach. The comment from the general public did not state where on Brushy Creek wading and kids play was taking place, and the findings of the field assessments did not find substantial evidence that mentioned recreational uses were taking place regularly within this segment of Brushy Creek. The comments received for Brushy Creek did not provide any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Brushy Creek will remain Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the upper extent of Brushy Creek Lake (W. line, S16, T88N, R27W, Webster Co.) to the Vincent WWTP outfall (SE1/4, S28, T90N, R27W, Webster Co.).* *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Buckeye Creek Affected Facility: Agency (568) Dates: Field assessment - 9/13/06, Phone interviews - Dec. 07/ Jan. 08 Public Comments: A local resident was interviewed on September 13, 2006 at the time of the field assessment at site 568-1. He stated that children play and fish in the creek at this location (any more details). The department contacted the Wapello County Conservation Board, the managing authority of the Johnson-Noel Buckeye Wildlife Area, to acquire information regarding the recreational activities that have occurred in that particular public land. The Wapello County Conservation Board employee stated that wading had been witnessed at this location. Children’s play, fishing, seining, and minnow trapping are also activities that have been witnessed occurring here. Canoeing, kayaking, or tubing also occurs when flows are elevated. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (A2) designation was appropriate for Buckeye Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (A3). The Wapello County Conservation Board employee confirmed public comments obtained at the time of the field assessment regarding the recreational uses that occur at Site 568-1. The department did not observe any evidence recreational uses. The uses mentioned are consistent with Class A3 Children’s Recreation; however, these uses are not noted to occur frequently. Due to the infrequency of the use; Buckeye Creek does not meet the full criteria of Class A3. The comments received for Buckeye Creek did not provide any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Buckeye Creek will remain as Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the mouth (NW ¼, S13, T72N, R12W, Wapello County) to the confluence with Unnamed Creek (NW ¼, S31, T72N, R12W, Wapello County).* * See recommendation map

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Stream: Buffalo Creek Affected Facilities: Anamosa State Penitentiary (647) and Coggon (105) Dates: Field assessment –6/21/06, 10/19/06, 10/20/06, and 11/13/07,

Survey(s)/Interview(s) – 3/08, 12/07, 11/07, 10/07, and 5/07 Public Comments: County Conservation Board Phone/Mail Survey/Comments Comments concerning Buffalo Creek were received by the department from an employee of the Jones County Conservation Board. They indicated the following: children’s recreation takes place near or in the creek; children and adults swim in certain pools of the creek; and residents, avid paddlers, and anglers use the creek for recreational use that require primary contact with the water. A recreational use survey was also received from a board member of the Jones County Conservation Board. The survey indicated the following: canoeing, tubing, children playing in or near the creek, and fishing take place on the creek (area of access listed as Fremont Bridge in Jones County). Comments concerning Buffalo Creek were also received by an employee of the Linn County Conservation Board. The comments stated that Buffalo Creek is an often used recreation resource in Linn County and people wade, canoe, fish, and swim in the creek. A recreational use phone survey was also conducted with an employee of the Linn County Conservation Board concerning the segment of the creek flowing through Buffalo Creek Park. The survey indicated the following: swimming and wading occurs (frequency not noted); campground located in the park; children playing in or near the stream occurs (frequency not noted); canoeing, kayaking, or tubing takes place infrequently; and fishing takes place. A recreational use mail survey was received by the department from an employee of the Buchanan County Conservation Board concerning segment 3 of the creek*. The survey indicated that no recreational uses are associated with the creek. A recreational use phone survey was also conducted with an employee of the Buchanan County Conservation Board concerning the area of the creek flowing through Newton Township Natural Area and the Buffalo Creek Area. The survey indicated the following: wading takes place in the creek (frequency not noted); some canoeing occurs (exact frequency not noted); and fishing, seining, and trapping minnows takes place. A recreational use phone surveys were conducted with a Buchanan County Conservation Board employee concerning the segments of the creek flowing through the Buffalo Creek Area, Buffalo Creek Wildlife Management Area, and the Newton Township. The survey indicated that fishing occurs in the Buffalo Creek Area; trapping and hunting occur in the Buffalo Creek Wildlife Management Area, the Newton Township, and The Buffalo Creek Wildlife Area; wading probably occurs in the Buffalo Creek Wildlife Area; and a park is located in the Buffalo Creek Area.

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A recreational use phone survey was conducted with an employee of the Delaware County Conservation Board concerning the segment of the creek flowing through the Silver Creek Wildlife Area. The survey stated that canoeing, kayaking, or tubing occurs several times a month during the summer. Minnow seining and animal trapping also occur in the wildlife area. Additional Surveys/Comment 53 surveys were received by the department from residents of Iowa. Many of the surveys indicated recreational uses consistent with Classes A1, A2, and A3 designations were occurring in the creek (swimming, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, fishing, wading, and children playing). The majority of the comments were received for the portion of the creek flowing through Jones County (near or within the city of Anamosa). Assessment Site Interview/Postcard Site: 765-c (Buchanan County) A postcard was filled out by a local streamside resident. The resident indicated that there was no swimming, fishing/seining/minnow trapping, children playing in or around the creek, or canoeing/ kayaking/tubing occurring at this location. Analysis: The initial recommendation concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Buffalo Creek from the mouth to the dam at Coggon and from the upper extent of the Coggon impoundment to the confluence with East and West Branch Buffalo Creeks due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence and information to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The initial recommendation also concluded that a Primary Contact Recreational Use (Class A1) designation was appropriate for Buffalo Creek from the dam at a Coggon to the upper extent of the Coggon Impoundment. Segment 1: Mouth to to north park boundary of Buffalo Creek Park (Jones and Linn) The depth criteria guidelines used by the department to help determine if Primary Contact Recreational use (Class A1) is attainable typically will exclude streams that are not able to support a Class A1 use due to the overall lack of flow needed to support activities that result in direct and prolonged contact with the water, involving considerable risk of ingesting appreciable quantities of water sufficient to pose a health hazard. While these guidelines are effective in most situations, there are cases where a stream demonstrates that it can support the Class A1 use despite the lack of flow that typically distinguishes a stream that can support Primary Contact Recreational uses. The comments from the general public and local officials have indicated that multiple recreational uses occur within the lower reaches of Buffalo Creek (specifically from the mouth to north park boundary of Buffalo Creek Park). The majority of the public comments were concentrated on two bridge crossings around the city of Anamosa. The

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comments received describe the occurrence of activities consistent with all three of Iowa’s recreational use designations. Sites 105-2 and 105-6 assessed in 2006 contained maximum depth measurements considered adequate for primary contact recreation. These sites were revisited in 2007 to determine the size of the pools. 105-2 Pool size was approximately 30 feet wide X 90 feet in length. 105-6 Pool appeared to be 40 to 90 feet wide and was approximately 249 feet in length. Public comments indicated multiple recreational uses occurring in the creek. Comments are broken down into the county or counties for which they apply. Jones County 39 comments were specific to Jones County or bridges in or around the city of Anamosa. Out of the 39 surveys/comments received, these are the number of surveys that indicated the following activities had been observed or personally participated in: 35 swimming or other water play where you might ingest water, 33 children playing, 38 canoeing or kayaking, 31 tubing, and 35 fishing/seining/trapping minnows. Linn County Comments concerning Buffalo Creek were also received by an employee of the Linn County Conservation Board. The comments stated that Buffalo Creek is an often used recreation resource in Linn County and people wade, canoe, fish, and swim in the creek. A recreational use phone survey was also conducted with an employee of the Linn County Conservation Board concerning the segment of the creek flowing through Buffalo Creek Park. The survey indicated the following: swimming and wading occurs (frequency not noted); campground located in the park; children playing in or near the creek occurs (frequency not noted); canoeing, kayaking, or tubing takes place infrequently; and fishing takes place. Multiple Counties listed as access area One comment indicated the area of access from Winthrop to Anamosa (Jones, Linn, Buchannan, and Delaware Counties) and stated the following uses occurred: swimming from sandy beaches; frequent canoeing from northern Linn Co. to Anamosa; and fishing. 4 comments indicated Linn and Jones Counties as the area of access. Out of the 4 surveys/comments received, these are the number of surveys that indicated the following activities had been observed or personally participated in: 4 swimming, 3 children playing, 4 canoeing/kayaking/ or tubing, and 3 fishing/seining/trapping minnows. The area of the creek from the mouth to the north boundary of Buffalo Creek Park received numerous comments that gave testimony of primary contact recreational uses

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occurring in this segment. In the initial assessment, evidence of recreational use was observed at several locations through the assessed reaches. Despite the marginal flows, primary contact recreational uses are considered attainable for this segment of Buffalo Creek taking into consideration the borderline depths found during the initial assessment within this segment and public comments that suggest activities consistent with Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational Use. Segment 2: to the confluence with East and West Branches of Buffalo Creek During the initial assessment, one maximum depth at site 765-a was considered adequate for primary contact recreation based on the guidelines used by the department to determine the attainability of primary contact recreation. Site 765-d had a maximum depth of greater than 48 inches. This area was revisited in 2007 to determine its size. 765-d The pool was 20 feet X 20 feet and had a maximum depth of 42 inches. The substrate at this location contained a large amount of shifting sand. Public comments for this segment indicated several recreational uses are occurring. One comment indicated the City of Winthrop within Buchanan Co. as the area of access. The survey indicated the following: they personally contacted a friend with a small family farm on Buffalo Creek southeast of Winthrop (they didn’t state whether these questions are being answered by the person filling out the survey or the person they contacted); yes, swimming or other water play where you might ingest water occurs; children and grandchildren are in the water playing; children play with inner tubes in Buffalo Creek; seining for minnows and children fishing for chubs and catching crayfish occurs. (Location of this comment was not specific to a bridge location) One comment stated while there may be public access east of Winthrop, that they had never seen any boating, swimming or other public use. Another comment listed sections 24 and 25 near Winthrop as the area of access. The survey stated that no swimming, children playing, or tubing/canoeing/or kayaking had been observed or participated in. The survey also stated that minnow trapping has occurred. One comment stated the following: swimming had been observed in section 29 bridge crossing on 325th St. 6 times in July, August, and September and the same location and time period for children playing; swimming and children playing in bridge crossing in section 24 twice; and fishing in section 28 next to Winthrop. Recreational use phone surveys were conducted with a Buchanan County Conservation Board employee concerning the segments of the creek flowing through the Buffalo Creek Area, Buffalo Creek Wildlife Area, Buffalo Creek Wildlife Management Area, and the Newton Township Natural Area. The survey stated that fishing, trapping, and hunting

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occur; and a park is located in the Buffalo Creek Area. No other recreational uses associated within these areas were indicated. A recreational use phone survey was conducted with an employee of the Delaware County Conservation Board concerning the segment of the creek flowing through the Silver Creek Wildlife Area. The survey stated that canoeing, kayaking, or tubing occurs several times a month during the summer. Minnow seining and animal trapping also occur in the wildlife area. A recreational use mail survey was received by the department from an employee of the Buchanan County Conservation Board concerning segment 3 of the creek*. The survey indicated that no recreational uses are associated with the creek. A recreational use phone survey was also conducted with an employee of the Buchanan County Conservation Board concerning the area of the creek flowing through Newton Township Natural Area and the Buffalo Creek Area. The survey indicated the following: wading takes place in the creek (frequency not noted); some canoeing occurs (exact frequency not noted); and fishing, seining, and trapping minnows takes place. Two comments indicated swimming and children’s recreation occurs in this segment. One comment did not list a specific location of this activity. The other comment listed two access points for these activities at 325th St. and Slater Ave. in Section 24. 325th Street is located within the Buffalo Creek Wildlife Management Area. County Conservation Board comments indicated that no children’s recreation or swimming occur at this location. Slater Ave. in located in section 24. Another comment listed this location and indicated that no swimming or children’s recreation occurs. These areas are rural in location. Although children’s recreation has occurred it is difficult to determine if this activity is frequent enough to warrant a Class A3 children’s recreation designation at this time. Two comments indicate some canoeing occurs in Newton Township Natural Area and in the Buffalo Creek Area. No assessment site was located at these specific areas. However assessment sites in this segment do not indicate depths supportive of primary contact recreation at summer base flow conditions. It is suspected these activities may be taking place during periods of elevated flows, allowing these to be infrequent activities. This area of the assessed reach is not expected to sustain conditions to support primary contact recreation. The one location at site 765-d with depths considered adequate for primary contact recreation was small, isolated, and contained a shifting sand substrate. This or any other area of the assessed reach of segment 2 is not expected to sustain conditions to support primary contact recreation. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below: Class A1 primary contact recreational use designation from the mouth (S10, T84N, R4W, Jones Co.) to Linn-Delaware Road (North line S4, T86N,R06W, Jackson Co.)

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Class A2 secondary contact recreational use designation from Linn-Delaware Road (North line S4, T86N,R06W, Jackson Co.) to the confluence with East and West Branch Buffalo Creeks (S35, T90N, R8W, Buchanan Co.) *See recommendation map It should be noted that the department continually updates water quality standards for Iowa. This can include follow-up studies regarding Use Attainability Analyses to incorporate the latest and any new information to ensure the uses of Iowa’s waters are reflected appropriately in the Water Quality Standards.

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Stream: Burr Oak Creek Affected Facility: City of Hull (512) Dates: Field assessment - 8/23/2006 Public Comments: Three surveys were returned for Burr Oak Creek. One survey completed by a Sioux County Conservation Board employee stated that the only know recreation use associated Burr Oak Creek was minnow trapping. Two surveys were submitted by private citizens. Both surveys stated that there are no known recreational uses taking place in Burr Oak Creek. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Burr Oak Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The comments received for Burr Oak Creek did not provide any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Burr Oak Creek will remain as Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the mouth (S11, T97N, R46W, Sioux County) to the confluence with Unnamed Creek #2 (SE ¼ of S15, T97N, R45W, Sioux County).* *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Buttrick Creek Affected Facility: Frontier Ethanol (660) Gowrie Municipal Utilities (529) Dates: Field assessment – 10/16/06

Phone interviews - Dec. 07/ Jan. 08 Public Comments: There were 2 comments received for the assessed segment of Buttrick Creek from county conservation employees and 10 comments received from the general public for a total of 12 comments. Of the 10 comments received for Buttrick Creek from the general public; swimming was a recreational activity noted in 3 of the surveys, child’s play was mentioned in 5 of the surveys, and canoeing was mentioned in 6. Fishing was the most popular activity being noted in 8 of the surveys. Only 4 of these surveys listed specific locations of the recreational activities. Quaker Street, 250th Street, 240th Street, and 235th Street were all noted as bridge access areas by the survey participants. (See Public Lands and Comments Map). A survey was returned from a Greene County Conservation employee who stated that swimming, child’s play, and canoeing had never been observed in Buttrick Creek. They noted that fishing activity is regularly seen throughout the entire stretch. A phone interview was conducted with a Greene County Conservation employee regarding recreational uses in the Waters Wildlife Area. Swimming and child’s play had not been observed at this location. Canoeing and fishing has been observed occasionally. A local resident was interviewed at the bridge while assessing site 529-1a, he stated that there had been canoeing, fishing, swimming/wading, and trapping at this location. A postcard was returned from Site 529-2a that stated that people fish in the creek approximately 5 times per year, and this individual takes his niece and nephew “exploring” around the creek once or twice a year. Analysis: The initial department recommendation concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Buttrick Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence and information to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3).

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The depth criteria guidelines used by the department to help determine if Primary Contact Recreational use (Class A1) is attainable typically will exclude streams that are not able to support a Class A1 use due to the overall lack of flow needed to support activities that result in direct and prolonged contact with the water, involving considerable risk of ingesting appreciable quantities of water sufficient to pose a health hazard. While these guidelines are effective in most situations, there are cases where a stream demonstrates that it can support the Class A1 use despite the lack of flow that typically distinguishes a stream that can support Primary Contact Recreational uses. The department initial recommendation noted that site 529-2a possessed an adequate maximum depth to support the Class A1 use at that site. While Buttrick Creek did not meet the depth guidelines in full, the fact that this site meets the maximum depth requirement helps to support the public comments received at this location. The comments from the general public and local officials have indicated that multiple recreational uses occur throughout Buttrick Creek, including swimming, child’s play, canoeing and fishing. The comments have listed locations throughout the entire assessed reach of Buttrick Creek. The comments received for Buttrick Creek have described that the assessed reach does support Primary Contact Recreation despite low flows. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below.

- Class A1 Primary Contact Recreation designation apply from the mouth of (S26, T83N, R30W, Greene County) to the confluence of East Branch Buttrick Creek and West Buttrick Creek (SE ¼, S25, T84N, R30W, Greene County).*


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Stream: Catfish Creek

Affected Facility: Super 20 Mobile Home Park (280) Dubuque Regional Airport (562) Hickory Acres Subdivision (542)

Arctic Glacier Premium, Inc. (380) Table Mound #1 Mobile Home Park (281) Iowa DOT Maintenance Garage – Dubuque (5)

Dates: Field assessment – 9/10/05 and 11/14/06 Public Comments: A total of eight comments were received for the assessed reach of Catfish Creek. One survey was submitted for Catfish Creek from a Dubuque County Conservation Board employee. The survey stated that teenagers swim near the Mines of Spain during hot weather, children frequent the stream especially at Swiss Valley Park, canoeing takes place and the DNR and County Conservation have sponsored canoe floats. Canoeing has been observed near the mouth, tubing takes place at Swiss Valley Park, and fishing his frequent near Swiss Valley Park. A map was also submitted with the survey with the area recommended as Class A1 noted to have most of the canoeing activities, the area recommended as Class A3 (Swiss Valley Park) as a heavily used park, and the area outside of the park as the area with most of the fishing activities. A phone interview was conducted with an Iowa Department of Natural Resources Parks employee about the Catfish Creek State Preserve area. The employee stated that about once a summer swimming is observed in this area but it could be happening more frequently. The employee has not observed children recreating in this area but canoeing takes place twice a summer during sponsored canoeing events. Fishing activities also take place weekly on Catfish Creek. A comment was received from the general public stating that children play in the creek, especially once it gets to the boarders of Dubuque. A survey and comments were submitted by a National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium employee. The survey stated that swimming often occurs near the mouth and that the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area is a popular recreation area. There is a Canoe/Kayak dock in the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. Tubing is occasionally observed and fishing from the banks and docks takes place along Catfish Creek. Two online surveys were received for Catfish Creek for the area around the Mines of Spain Recreation Area. Both surveys stated that they have either participated in or observed swimming, and that canoeing/kayaking/tubing take place frequently in this area.

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One of the surveys said that children recreate in the stream once or twice per year and that fishing is frequent near the Mines of Spain. Two online surveys were received for Catfish Creek for the Swiss Valley Park area. Both surveys stated that no swimming was taking place in the area, but one survey stated that this area was popular for wading. Fishing was the only other activity noted to takes place regularly in the area. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded:

• Class A1 Primary Recreational use designation apply from the mouth (S5, T88N, R3E, Dubuque Co.) to the confluence with South Fork Catfish Creek (S2, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.)

• Class A2 Secondary Contact recreational use designation apply from the

confluence with South Fork Catfish Creek (S2, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.) to Whitetop Road (S16, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.)

• Class A3 Children’s Recreation use designation apply from Whitetop Road (S16,

T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.) to Swiss Valley Road (N. line, S20, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.)

The comments from the Dubuque County Conservation Board support the original recommendations for Catfish Creek. It was noted that canoeing activities take place near the mouth in the recommended Class A1 segment. Children playing, and tubing in the Swiss Valley Park, and fishing near the park all take place regularly. The employee from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Parks stated that swimming is observed. The exact location of the swimming was not given, but it is assumed that it is taking place near the urban part of the stream which is recommended as Class A1. The Mines of Spain Recreation area was mentioned in many of the comments as a place with a high frequency of recreational uses and contact with the water is common. This recreation area is located within the segment of Catfish Creek that was originally recommended as Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational Use; therefore the comments received support the original recommendation. Swiss Valley Park was also mentioned as an area with a high frequency of use. This segment of Catfish Creek was originally recommended Class A3 Children’s Recreational Use. The comments received support the original recommendation for this stream segment.

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The comments received for Catfish Creek did not provide any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Catfish Creek will remain Class A1 Primary Recreational use designation from the mouth (S5, T88N, R3E, Dubuque Co.) to the confluence with South Fork Catfish Creek (S2, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.), Class A2 Secondary Contact recreational use designation from the confluence with South Fork Catfish Creek (S2, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.) to Whitetop Road (S16, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.), and Class A3 Children’s Recreation use designation from Whitetop Road (S16, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.) to Swiss Valley Road (N. line, S20, T88N, R2E, Dubuque Co.) *See recommendation map for details

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Stream: Cedar Creek Affected Facility: City of Lohrville (410) City of Rinard (20) Dates: Field assessment – 4/28/06, Phone interviews - Dec. 07/ Jan. 08 Public Comments: There were 5 comments received for the assessed segment of Cedar Creek. Three comments were received from the Calhoun County Conservation Board. One survey pertained to Cedar Creek in the Lohr Wildlife Preserve. Canoeing was noted to take place a couple time a year and fishing/minnow seining was noted to occur 2-3 times a year. No other recreational activities were noted. One survey pertained to Cedar Creek in the University Forty Park. The survey stated that swimming takes place 3-4 times a month in the summer. Children’s play was noted to take place within the University Forty park approximately 15 times a month in the summer. Canoeing was noted to take place approximately 2 times a month in the summer, and fishing/minnow seining was noted to take place approximately 10 times a month in the summer. The final survey from the Calhoun County Conservation Board pertained to the entire creek. The survey stated that within the University Forty Park, swimming, children’s play, tubing, and fishing occur on a regular basis in the summer months. On survey was submitted by the Greene County Conservation Board. The survey noted that canoeing and kayaking is a seasonal activity in the spring and early summer when flows are high. The frequency of these events was unknown. No other activities were noted. The final survey was submitted by a private citizen. The survey stated that the citizen fishes the creek on a regular basis. No specific location noted. No other recreational activities were noted. Analysis: The initial department recommendation concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Cedar Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence and information to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). (see previous recommendation map). The depth criteria guidelines used by the department to help determine if Primary Contact Recreational use (Class A1) is attainable typically will exclude streams that are not able to support a Class A1 use due to the overall lack of flow needed to support activities that

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result in direct and prolonged contact with the water, involving considerable risk of ingesting appreciable quantities of water sufficient to pose a health hazard. While these guidelines are effective in most situations, there are cases where a stream demonstrates that it can support the Class A1 use despite the lack of flow that typically distinguishes a stream that can support Primary Contact Recreational uses. While portions of Cedar Creek demonstrated adequate depths to fulfill a Class A1 designation, during the field assessment the creek elevated flows of approximately 6-8 inches. During normal flow conditions Cedar Creek would not sustain depths to maintain a Class A1 designation. The public comments further support this conclusion. The comments from the general public and local officials have indicated that multiple and frequent recreational uses occur within Cedar Creek in the University Forty Park, including swimming, children’s play, canoeing/kayaking, and fishing/minnow seining. The activities occur on a regular basis within the park. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below.

- Class A2, Secondary Contact Recreation from the mouth (S33, T85N, R30W, Greene Co.) to the confluence with an unnamed creek (SW ¼ of the NW ¼ of S23, T86N, R32W, Calhoun County).*

- Class A3, Children’s Recreation from the confluence with an unnamed creek

(SW ¼ of the NW ¼ of S23, T86N, R32W, Calhoun County) to the confluence with an unnamed creek (SE ¼ of the NE ¼ of S23, T86N, R32W, Calhoun County).*

- Class A2, Secondary Contact Recreation from the confluence with an

unnamed creek (SE ¼ of the NE ¼ of S23, T86N, R32W, Calhoun County) to the confluence with East Cedar Creek (S31, T87N, R31W, Calhoun Co.).*


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Stream: Cedar Creek Affected Facility: Fairfield (102), Cardinal School (249), Birmingham (520), Agency

(568), Packwood (802) Dates: Field assessment – 4/5/06 and 11/3/06 Public Comments: There were nine surveys completed by the general public and six surveys completed by County Conservation Board employees (Jefferson, Wapello, Van Buren counties). The surveys stated that there were various areas through the entire stretch of Cedar Creek that had canoeing, tubing, fishing, trapping, and ATV use. The surveys from the County Conservation Board employees were filled out for Turkey Run Wildlife Recreation Area, Round Prairie Recreation Area, Johnson-Noel Buckeye Wildlife Area, and Cedar Creek Timber Recreation Area. All of the surveys stated that fishing has been observed throughout these recreational areas. Minimal canoeing was noted at Cedar Creek Timber Area. A canoe access was noted at Round Prairie Park in addition to infrequent wading. Turkey Run Wildlife Area noted canoeing, infrequent wading and doubted swimming occurs due to the small size of or lack of flow in the at this location creek. Johnson-Noel Buckeye Wildlife Area noted no swimming or canoeing, but children’s play 3 to 4 times a month. There were several surveys that referenced general locations within Cedar Creek. Seven of the surveys referenced general areas of Cedar Creek canoed or kayaked near Fairfield (Highway 1). Two of the general public comments referenced a section of the creek between recreation sites 568-I and 568-J in which recreational activities such as hunting, trapping, kids playing, fishing, wading, and canoeing . Another survey from a local land owner references land that he owns Northeast of Batavia in which his friends and family, including children, walk and canoe the creek as well as running bank lines. Analysis: The initial department recommendation concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for 55 miles of Cedar Creek due to the lack of flow from the bridge crossing on County Highway W40 (SE ¼ S2, T70N, R08W, Van Buren County) to the bridge crossing on Competine Road (SE ¼ S3, T72N, R12W, Wapello County) which would completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). (see previous recommendation map). The depth criteria guidelines used by the department to help determine if Primary Contact Recreational use (Class A1) is attainable typically will exclude streams that are not able to support a Class A1 use due to the overall lack of flow needed to support activities that

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result in direct and prolonged contact with the water, involving considerable risk of ingesting appreciable quantities of water sufficient to pose a health hazard. While these guidelines are effective in most situations, there are cases where a stream demonstrates that it can support the Class A1 use despite the lack of flow that typically distinguishes a stream that can support Primary Contact Recreational uses. The department uses Iowa’s Fish and Canoe guide while researching the public comments. The guide helps to support claims of canoeing or kayaking streams and rivers in Iowa, however Cedar Creek is not listed as one of Iowa’s Canoe routes, however this does not mean that canoeing or kayaking is not occuring on these sections of streams. Several comments indicated canoeing and kayaking commonly occurring from Fairfield to Gibson Recreational Area. The stream may be too shallow to completely support Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational uses throughout the entire 55 miles however, surveys returned to the department made reference to activities potentially consistent with Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational uses that were participated in or witnessed in portions of the assessed reach.

Site 568-J – Looking downstream Site 568-I – Looking downstream The department assessed a total of nine sites along Cedar Creek. Of the measurements taken on the Cedar Creek, 6 of the 18 measurements were at or above the 19 inch average depth and 1 of the 18 measurements were at or above the 39 inch maximum depth suggested to be considered for Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational Use. Two upstream comments mentioned recreational activities have occurring between the sites 568-I and 568-J. The majority of the activities noted in the surveys and the evidence found during the initial assessment are consistent with the secondary contact recreational use designation. The activities that may be associated with primary contact recreational use appear to only be able to occur at higher flows conditions. Children’s recreational use is noted to occur in these areas, but from the surveys received and lack of evidence found in the field the department in unable to determine accurately whether or not these activities are a common occurrence that would warrant a Class A3 recreational use designation at this time.

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Site 568-K – Looking downstream Children’s recreational use is noted to occur in the Johnson-Noel Buckeye Recreational Area. The Wapello CCB stated the children recreate in the stream commonly (3-4 times a month). The department performed an assessment at this location (Site 568-K – see pic above). The department found graffiti, footprints, chairs under the bridge, foot paths, and ATV tracks. The survey received served to support that children’s play is not only occurring at this public area, but it occurring on a regular basis to warrant consideration of a Class A3 Children’s recreational use designation. While Cedar Creek did not meet the depth guidelines in full, activities consistent with Primary Contact Recreational (Class A1) uses have been described at locations from W40 to Fairfield. The department feels that because of the activities associated with this segment (frequent canoeing and kayaking) it can be concluded that the Class A1 Primary Contact Recreational Designation would be appropriate from W40 to Fairfield despite the marginal flows found during the original assessment. In addition, the department recommends that Class A3 Children’s Contact Recreation apply for the Johnson-Noel Buckeye Wildlife Area. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below.

• Class A1 Primary Contact Recreation from the bridge crossing on County Highway W40 (SE ¼ S2, T70N, R08W, Van Buren County) to the bridge crossing on Kale Road (S10, T71N, R10W, Jefferson County)

• Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreational use from the bridge crossing on Kale Road (S10, T71N, R10W, Jefferson County) to the confluence of Unnamed Creek (E ½ S13, T72N, R12W, Wapello County)

• Class A3 Children’s Recreational Use from the confluence of Unnamed Creek (E ½ S13, T72N, R12W, Wapello County) to the confluence of Unnamed Creek (E ½ S11, T72, R12W, Wapello County)


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It should be noted that the department continually updates water quality standards for Iowa. This can include follow-up studies regarding Use Attainability Analyses to incorporate the latest and any new information to ensure the uses of Iowa’s waters are reflected appropriately in the Water Quality Standards.

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Stream: Cedar Creek Affected Facility: Laurens (676) Dates: Field assessment - 8/15/06, 8/16/06, and 10/16/06

Survey(s)/Interview(s) – 12/07 - 9/06 Public Comments: There were a total of 5 comments received regarding recreational activities in Cedar Creek. Private individuals sent in 3 comments while the other 2 comments were phone interviews with Iowa DNR and Calhoun County Conservation employees. The phone interviews pertain to the two public lands areas. The three private citizens have witnessed, or not witnessed, different activities in Cedar Creek. One commenter has waded the creek as well as kayaked near the mouth. Another commenter has swam, canoed, fished, and gone tubing in the creek and has 4 children that play in the creek often. They had also witnessed many other individuals doing these same activities. The third commenter has witnessed children playing, tubing, and fishing in the creek. All of the comments note to recreate in the lower portion of Cedar Creek near the mouth. Phone interviews were conducted with a Calhoun County Conservation employee regarding the Kelly Access and an Iowa DNR employee regarding the Sac City Access. The Iowa DNR employee reports infrequent canoeing and moderate frequency of fishing at the Sac City Access. They also noted that child’s play probably occurs but is unsure of frequency. The Calhoun County Conservation employee stated they had observed canoeing 3 to 4 times a summer and fishing twice a week. Graffiti, ATV tracks, and inner-tubes left along the creek bank are types of recreational evidence that was found at some of the 10 assessed sites. Analysis: The initial department recommendation concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Cedar Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence and information to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The comments mention activities that are consistent with uses protected by Class A1 and Class A3 recreational designations. The majority of uses are reported as occurring near the mouth of Cedar Creek. There were comments stating that canoeing has been observed near the Kelly Access; however, due to the low flow of this segment of Cedar Creek it is believed that canoeing is only possible during periods of high flow.

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The depth criteria guidelines used by the department to help determine if Primary Contact Recreational use (Class A1) is attainable typically will exclude streams that are not able to support a Class A1 use due to the overall lack of flow needed to support activities that result in direct and prolonged contact with the water, involving considerable risk of ingesting appreciable quantities of water sufficient to pose a health hazard. While these guidelines are effective in most situations, there are cases where a stream demonstrates that it can support the Class A1 use despite the lack of flow that typically distinguishes a stream that can support Primary Contact Recreational uses. In the case of Cedar Creek, the comments submitted have shown that the portion from Shasta Street to the mouth is capable of sustaining Class A1 recreation uses. Due to recent information the department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below:

- Class A1 Children’s Recreational Use designation from the mouth (S25, T88N, R36W, Sac County) to Shasta Street (S25, T88N, R36W, Sac County)*

- Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreation from Shasta Street (S25, T88N, R36W, Sac County) to State Highway 10 (SE ¼, S27, T93N, R34W, Pocahontas County)*


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Stream: Chariton River Affected Facilities: Humeston (526), Iowa DOT Maintenance Garage-Chariton (584),

Russell (235), Rathbun Regional Water Assn. (6), Centerville (East) (394), Centerville (West) (395), and Plano (700)

Dates: Field assessment - 3/29/06, 4/6/06, 9/5/06, 9/6/06, 11/6/06, and 11/7/06 Survey(s)/Interview(s) – 12/07, 11/07, 5-07, and 4-07 Public Lands in the Assessed Reach: Class A1 Segment (Downstream of Lake Rathbun) Lake Rathbun Area Rathbun Wildlife Refuge Area Sedan Bottoms Wildlife Management Area Class A2 Segment (Upstream of Lake Rathbun) Rathbun Wildlife Management Area Colyn Wildlife Management Area Slab Castle Wildlife Area Chariton River Greenbelt WRP Cinder Marsh Cinder Path Bike Trail Barber Woods Public Comments: Site Assessment Interview One interview was conducted at site 526-1B. The local resident stated Carp and Bullhead fishing occurred infrequently in the pool at the upstream location. DNR Wildlife Phone Survey A recreational use phone survey was conducted with a DNR Wildlife employee concerning the segments of the river flowing through the Colyn WMA and Rathbun WMA. The survey indicated the following for the Colyn WMA: Children playing near the river in spring, summer, and fall weekly, but not in the river; the banks are steep and muddy in this location; (impoundment at this location) canoeing in impoundment but did not specify whether it occurs in the river; and fishing in the river daily during the summer. The survey indicated the following for the Rathbun WMA: Children playing near the river in spring, summer, and fall weekly, but not in the river; the banks are steep and muddy in this location; fishing and duck hunting occur; and canoeing occurs at low frequencies.

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CCB Mailing/Phone Survey A recreational use survey concerning the Chariton River was returned by a Wayne County Conservation Board employee. The survey indicated that swimming occurs within Lake Rathbun and fishing occurs frequently. A recreational use phone survey was conducted with a Lucas CCB employee concerning segments of the river flowing through Cinder Marsh, WRP, Chariton River Greenbelt, Slab Castle Wildlife Area, Cinder Path Bike Trail, and Barber Woods. The surveys indicated that fishing occurs within the Chariton River Greenbelt during the summer twice a month. The survey also indicated that no other recreational uses are associated with these areas. Online Survey/Email Five online surveys were filled out by residents of Iowa. Two of the surveys were concerning the recreational uses of Lake Rathbun and are not part of the affected reach of the Chariton River. One survey indicates that canoeing/kayaking, fishing, wading, and children playing occurs on the river downstream of the Lake Rathbun dam (reach recommended Class A1). Another survey indicated that fishing, seining minnows, and or trapping occurs in the river every year, however the last two years there has been no activity. One survey stated that swimming occurs daily throughout the summer (did not specify Lake Rathbun or Chariton River); canoeing, kayaking, and or tubing occurs in Lake Rathbun during the warmer months and the river above Lake Rathbun frequently; children’s recreation occurs on Lake Rathbun and the Chariton River above lake Rathbun by wading and swimming; and fishing occurs year round on Lake Rathbun and frequent fishing during the summer on the river upstream of Lake Rathbun. This survey specified the area of access to the river as the upper reaches of Rathbun Lake. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded the following designations for the Chariton River: Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate upstream of Lake Rathbun due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). Primary Contact Recreational Use (Class A1) designation was appropriate downstream of the Lake Rathbun dam due to adequate flow necessary to support a primary contact designation. Downstream of the Lake Rathbun Dam: Iowa-Missouri state line to the Rathbun Reservoir Dam

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Public comments have provided additional evidence of primary contact recreation to support the original recommended designation for the segment of river downstream of the Lake Rathbun Dam (recommended Class A1). Upstream of Lake Rathbun. Upper extent of the Rathbun Lake conservation pool to the confluence with Unnamed Creek Segment 1: Upper extent of Rathbun Lake conservation pool to County Road S23 Two surveys indicated primary contact recreation (swimming and canoeing, kayaking, or tubing) occurs on the river just upstream of Lake Rathbun. The Chariton River flows into Lake Rathbun. It is not clear whether these surveys are providing information on the upper extent of Lake Rathbun or the portion of the river flowing into Lake Rathbun. No depths found during the assessment of the segment of river demonstrated the ability to support primary contact recreation. No evidence of primary contact recreation was found during the initial assessment of this segment of the river. This area of the affected reach is not expected to sustain conditions to support uses consistent with primary contact recreation. Two surveys indicated children are near the river during the summer weekly, but were not necessarily in the river. One survey indicated children swimming and wading takes place. However, it was not clear in this survey whether they were talking about Lake Rathbun or the Chariton River. No evidence of children’s recreation was found during the initial assessment. Children’s recreation is not expected to take place frequently due to rural location and difficult accessibility. Segment 2: County Road S23 to confluence with Unnamed Creek No public comments were received for this segment of the river that indicated recreational uses associated with the primary contact designation were occurring at any location in this segment. During the initial assessment no evidence of primary contact recreation was found in this segment of the river. Sites 526-1, 526-D, and 526-1B contained depths deep enough for primary contact recreation. All three areas were affected by beaver dams that created temporary environments that are not considered to be able to sustain permanent depths adequate for primary contact recreation. (see pictures)

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Site 526-D

526-D Bridge looking upstream

526-D Bridge looking downstream

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526-D Beaver dam at the assessed location

Site 526-1B

526-1B Beaver dam

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526-1B Downstream of beaver dam

Site 526-B

526-B Bridge looking upstream

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526-B Bridge looking downstream

526-B Beaver dam

No public comments were received for this segment of the river that indicated recreational uses associated with the primary contact designation were occurring at these three locations or any other location in this segment. No evidence of primary contact recreation was found in this segment of the river.

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Public comments did not provide any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s recommendation for the Chariton River, will remain as follows: Primary Recreational use designation from the Iowa-Missouri state line (S21, T67N, R16W, Appanoose Co.) to the Rathbun Reservoir Dam (S35, T70N, R18W, Appanoose Co.).* Secondary Contact recreational use from the upper extent of the Rathbun Lake conservation pool (SW1/4, S35, T71N, R20W, Lucas Co.) to the confluence with Unnamed Creek (SW1/4, S5, T70N, R23W, Wayne Co.). * See recommendation map

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Public Comment Analysis Stream: Clear Creek

Affected Facility: City of Conroy WWTP (675) (Proposed) Magellan Pipeline Company (8) City of Tiffin (237) City of Oxford (388) Amana-Nordstrom Inc. (246) Econolodge (254) Colony Village Restaurant (252) Colony Investment Services (166) Dates: Field assessment – 6/19/06, 10/12/2006 and 10/23/06

Phone interviews - Dec. 07/ Jan. 08 Public Comments: There were 9 comments received for the assessed segment of Clear Creek from county conservation employees or other organizations and 3 comments received from the general public, for a total of 12 comments. There were two comments that listed recreational activities around the Coralville area. One of the comments has wading, canoeing (at elevated flows) and fishing as being activities that have been observed or participated in on the creek. The other comment appears to be from an elementary student who states that he swims and plays in the creek behind his house between 4 to 8 times per month. There was a comment that listed the individual has participated in swimming in the creek, but did not list an occurrence rate or specific location. There was a packet received regarding recreational activities on Clear Creek from the Johnson and Iowa County Watershed Coalition. The packet included pictures of school-aged children in the creek learning various water sampling techniques. These pictures were taken at various locations between Coralville and Oxford. The City of Coralville, Parks and Recreation division sent in a packet with the details of the proposed Clear Creek Greenbelt area. This public area would encompass a large portion of the Clear Creek riparian area near the City of Coralville. The area will include many interpretive bike and walking paths, some of which have already been developed and are in use, stream access locations, and other park grounds. Two Johnson County conservation employees submitted a total of four comments regarding recreational activities in various locations along the creek. One commenter stated that he takes children to Clear Creek to take water samples and conduct aquatic life programs in the Oxford area. He also noted canoeing/kayaking and minnow seining in the creek at this location. Swimming, child’s play, and fishing/seining was noted as an occasional occurrence in this same area by the other conservation employee.

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The other two comments from the Johnson County Conservation employee state that child’s play, swimming, and fishing occur frequently in the Tiffin area. Child’s play, kayaking (when waters are elevated), and fishing are noted as frequent around Coralville. The City of Coralville was contacted regarding the Clear Creek Greenbelt and the Rotary Camp Cardinal Park. Fishing in Rotary Camp Cardinal Park was the only recreational activity reported for these two public lands. An Iowa City representative was contacted regarding Crandic Park at the mouth of Clear Creek. There had not been any recreational activities observed at this area by the interviewee. Evidence of recreational uses was observed at many of the sampling sites. The evidence typically consisted of graffiti, mud smears or mud balls, and footprints near the stream channel. Also ATV tracks were found at site 675-a. An interview post card was returned from site 675-c2. It was noted that children play and fishing, seining, and minnow trapping all occur near the bridge. Analysis: The initial department recommendation concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Clear Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence and information to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The comments from the general public and local officials have indicated that multiple recreational uses consistent with child’s play occur within Clear Creek from the mouth upstream to the City of Tiffin. There were comments of child’s play occurring upstream from Tiffin; however these activities appear to be infrequent. The public comments of swimming, children’s play, canoeing, and fishing between the mouth and Tiffin was further supplemented by the Johnson County Conservation comments stating that children’s play and fishing occur frequently in Clear Creek between the mouth and the City of Tiffin. Even though the previous assessment found Class A2 to be appropriate for Clear Creek; the comments received indicated Class A3 Children’s Contact Recreational Uses occurring on a regular basis, and thus the designation will be changed. The activities listed for this segment of Clear Creek appear to be consistent with recreational uses protected by the Class A3 designation, and depths are not adequate to support Class A1 uses; therefore, the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below.

- Class A3 Children’s Recreational use from the mouth (Johnson County) to Blackhawk Road (S29, T80N, R8W, Johnson County).*

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- Class A2 Secondary Contact Recreational use from Blackhawk Road (S29, T80N, R8W, Johnson County) to Q Avenue (W. line S23, T80N, R10W, Iowa County).*


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Stream: Cloie Branch Affected Facility: Asbury (204) Dates: Field assessment – 10/25/06, Phone interviews - Dec. 07/ Jan. 08 Public Comments: Three interview post cards were left at residences near Cloie Branch during the field assessment. All three were returned stating that children’s play and fishing took place in Cloie Branch. Two of the interview post cards stated that swimming took place near the mouth of Cloie Branch near Clay Hill Road. One stated children’s play took place near the Derby Grange Road area. An online survey was filled out that stated there was children’s play, fishing, and wading at the bridge on Clay Hill Road. The department contacted the Dubuque County Conservation Board to acquire information regarding the recreational activities that have occurred in Cloie Branch. The Dubuque County Conservation Board employee stated that no children’s play or swimming were observed, however fishing took place at the bridge near Clay Hill Road. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Cloie Branch due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The comments received from the general public and local officials have indicated that multiple recreational uses occur within the assessed reach of Cloie Branch near the Clay Hill Road bridge; although, the department did not observe any evidence of recreational use during the field assessment in 2006. The multiple comments received describing children’s play and swimming is consistent with Children’s Recreational Usage (Class A3). Above the bridge at Clay Hill Road, one comment was received stating that children’s play took place in the past. No other comments were received for this portion. Due to recent information the Department is modifying the original recommendations as detailed below.

- Class A3, Children’s Recreation from the mouth (NE ¼ S5, T89N, R2E, Dubuque County) to the Clay Hill Road (NE ¼ S5, T89N, R2E, Dubuque County).

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- Class A2, Secondary Contact Recreational Use from Clay Hill Road (NE ¼ S5, T89N, R2E, Dubuque County) to the confluence with Unnamed Creek (NE ¼ S18, T89N, R2E, Dubuque County). *


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Stream: Coal Creek Affected Facility: Lovilia (543) Dates: Field assessment – 8/2/06 and 9/18/06 Public Comments: One survey was returned for Coal Creek from a Mahaska County Conservation Board employee. The survey stated that there were several cabins located at the mouth near the Des Moines River and within this area it was noted that children were seen recreating in the stream. Also, people fishing near the mouth have also been observed. An email was received from a long time resident of the area stating that the stream does not have enough water to support recreational activities such as swimming, canoeing, tubing or fishing in Monroe County. The person did note however that four-wheelers have been observed driving in the stream channel. Analysis: The previous assessment concluded that a Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation was appropriate for Coal Creek due to the lack of flow throughout the reach to completely fulfill what is considered a Class A1 primary contact recreational use and the overall lack of evidence to justify Children’s Recreation (Class A3). The survey from the Mahaska County Conservation Board employee stated that cabins were found near the mouth of Coal Creek. These cabins are found along the Des Moines River and the activities described are most likely to be taking place in the Des Moines River or in the waters of the Des Moines River that back up into Coal Creek’s channel. The bridge crossing upstream of the mentioned stream segment was assessed and no sign of recreational uses were found in the approximately 1,000 feet of stream that was assessed. It should be noted that the Department continually updates the water quality standards for Iowa. This can include follow-up studies regarding Use Attainability Analyses to incorporate latest and any new information to ensure the uses of Iowa’s waters are reflected appropriately in the Water Quality Standards. The comment received from the long time resident of the area provided information that is consistent with the recommended Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) designation.

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The comments received for Coal Creek did not provided any additional information that would result in a change in the recommended designation. Therefore, the department’s original use designation recommendation for Coal Creek will remain as Secondary Contact Recreational Use (Class A2) from the mouth (S1, T74N, R17W, Mahaska Co.) to 115th Trail (NW1/4, S11, T73N, R18W, Monroe Co.).* *See recommendation map for details

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Combined Stream Comment Analyses - Iowa DNR

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