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Water Quality and Geotechnical l.b. , 2 . a. , 2 .c. , 7 .a. The site is adjacent to the San Joaquin River. Soil on site is Grangeville fine sandy loam, partially drained. Although the application materials note that, "Groundwater is generally 15 to 16 feet deep over most of the site, " groundwater levels are still comparatively low and will gradually rise as the area recovers from the recent six year drought. The application also states that the first major ground water barrier is about 50 to 60 feet deep. The Environmental Health Division has noted that in 1983 and 1986 there was sidewall and toe seepage along the levees in this immediate area, and that groundwater has "boiled up" on site during extremely wet years. The Soil Conservation Service in its characterization of the soil found on site, states that this soil type may provide wetland functions and values, and, in areas adjacent to levees, is subject to lateral seepage in wet years when the water level is high. Given the soil type and characteristics, groundwater table, and location next to the San Joaquin River, there is the potential for significant impacts to ground and surface water quality. Because of the high water table and type of soil, the ponds may fail under wet conditions. There is also the potential for levee failure and subsequent flooding of the site, with impact to surface water quality. This has occurred to wastewater treatment facilities during recent years in Santa Rosa and Guerneville. This site was also partially flooded (approximately 1/3 of the site) during the 19801s, according to Environmental Health. The ponds will accommodate wastewater from the Crossroads Industrial Park. Although the applicants have stated that the wastewater will be similar to domestic wastewater, the Crossroads is planned for industrial uses, and the area' s general industrial zoning permits numerous intensive uses requiring no or only minimal subsequent environmental review. It is possible that a use involving high water useage and potentially obnoxious or harmful materials could locate within the area, releasing these substances into the wastewater collection and treatment system. Given the highly porous nature of the soil under the ponds, and the relatively shallow depth to the water table, groundwater could become contaminated. There is also a question of how the ponds will function during excessively wet months when the water table is high and the ground saturated. Biological Resources 3 . a. , 3 .b. The draft Habitat Conservation Plan prepared for the Swainson ' s hawk (a State threatened species) by the City of Stockton indicates that numerous active nest sites for this species exist within the area- along the San Joaquin River. The project site, planted typically in winter wheat, provides foraging habitat for the hawk.