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data for the segment indicated that a particular parameter did not exceed the "table value" <br /> for that recommended use,the "table value"was listed as the recommended standard for <br /> the parameter. If the x+ s computation indicated that the instream concentrations of the <br /> parameter exceeded the "table value" and yet the use to be protected by that parameter <br /> was in place, then the x+ s value was recommended as the standard for that parameter. <br /> Conversely, if the ambient quality (x+ s) for a certain parameter exceeded the "table <br /> value" for the protection of a use, and there is information that the proposed use is not in <br /> place, the use classification was modified or temporary modifications to the parameters <br /> were established. Ambient quality is generally defined as the quality attributable to <br /> natural conditions and/or uncontrollable non-point sources. <br /> 2. The use classifications have been established in accordance with the provisions of <br /> Section 203 of the Water Quality Control Act and Section 3.1.6 and 3.1.13 of the Basic <br /> Regulations. <br /> 3. In most cases upstream segments of a stream are generally the same as, or higher in <br /> classification, than downstream segments in order to protect downstream uses. In a few <br /> cases, tributaries are classified at lower classifications than mainstems where flow from <br /> tributaries does not threaten the quality of mainstem waters where the evidence indicates <br /> that lower classification for the tributaries is appropriate. In either case, permits should <br /> be written to assure compliance with Water Quality Standards and any stream segment <br /> affected by a discharge. <br /> 4.A. The Commission has determined that it has the authority to assign the classification <br /> "High Quality Waters - Class 1" and "High Quality Waters - Class 2" where the evidence <br /> indicates that the requirements of Sections 3.1.13(1)(e)of the basic regulations are met. <br /> A question exists as to whether existing diversion structures can be maintained consistent <br /> with a"High Quality - Class 1" designation. Because of the questions regarding <br /> authority to regulate diversions, the Class 1 designation was deemed potentially too rigid. <br /> The Commission recognizes its authority to upgrade these segments if and when it is <br /> appropriate to do so. Streams have been classified "High Quality - Class 2" for one or <br /> more of the following reasons: <br /> (a) to facilitate the enjoyment and use of the scenic and natural resources of the State <br /> in accordance with the Legislative Declaration of the Colorado Water Quality <br /> Control Act(25-8-102(1) C.R.S. 1973. <br /> (b) to provide a high degree of protection deserving of wilderness areas which are a <br /> resource providing a unique experience. <br /> (c) to protect threatened species or to protect wild scenic river study areas or <br /> wilderness areas. <br /> The concern of the United States Forest Service that High Quality 2 classification will <br /> unduly burden their management of multiple use areas is not well founded. This is <br /> because activities on Forest Service land, i.e. grazing, mineral exploration, trail and road <br /> maintenance, are considered as a historical impact upon existing ambient water quality <br /> conditions and are non point sources which are presently not subject to any Water Quality <br /> Control Commission regulations. <br /> B. The "High Quality - Class 2" classification was proposed by the Gunnison River <br /> Coalition and other witnesses for a number of segments. These proposals have been <br /> rejected, and the segments classified for specific uses, for the following reasons: <br /> 8 <br />