Benchmark Levels |
Level of Concern for Aquatic Life |
Impacts on Aquatic Life |
Below EPA risk-based guidelines and state water quality standards for protection of aquatic life. |
Low |
Below levels that pose problems for aquatic life. |
Above EPA risk-based guidelines or state water quality standards for chronic exposure. |
Moderate |
Levels that might impact the health, growth or reproductive activity of aquatic life if exposed for an extended period of time. |
Above EPA risk-based guidelines or state water quality standards for acute exposure or failed a toxicity test. |
High |
Elevated potential for mortality among aquatic life |