From the Delta Mercury Control Program, Central Valley Regional Water Board: Below are a series of brief updates related to the Delta Mercury Control Program (aka Delta Methylmercury TMDL).
Status of Phase 1 Studies The Delta Mercury Control Program Phase 1 emphasizes studies and pilot projects to develop and evaluate management practices to control methylmercury in the Delta.
The studies encompass a variety of source types, including municipal wastewater treatment plants, urban and industrial stormwater discharges, dredging operations, tidal wetlands, open water habitats, and seasonal wetlands.
Progress reports detailing the current status of these studies have been submitted to the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (CVRWQCB) and are posted on the program website here.
Starting in 2018 staff will be reviewing available information in preparation for the Phase 1 Delta Mercury Control Program review.
The results of these control studies will inform the program review as well as inform implementation of potential methylmercury controls for Phase 2.
Delta Mercury Exposure Reduction Program In conjunction with the mercury and methylmercury load reduction goals of the TMDL, the Delta Mercury Control Program includes a Mercury Exposure Reduction Program (MERP).
Upstream Mercury Control Programs Statewide Mercury Control Program for Reservoirs A Statewide Mercury Control Program for Reservoirs is currently being developed for mercury-impaired reservoirs throughout California to reduce methylmercury levels in reservoir fish.
Central Valley Mercury Control Program for Rivers The CVRWQCB is just beginning to develop mercury control programs for rivers in the Central Valley.
New Mercury Beneficial Uses and Water Quality Objectives On 2 May 2017 the State Water Resources Control Board adopted Resolution No.