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California Regional Water Quality Cuntrol Board k Central Valley Region 0 Robert Schneider,Chair Gray Davis Winston H.Hickox i-. -;',� Governor Secretaryfor Sacramento Main Office Environmental Internet Address: http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/mgcb5 Protection 3443 Routier Road,Suite A,Sacramento,California 95827-3003 Phone(916)255-3000•FAX(916)255-3015 4 October 2001 CERTIFIED MAIL 7099 3220 0005 3846 6589 Robert Torres Trinchero Family Estates P.O. Box 248 St. Helena, CA 94574 WATER CODE SECTION 13267 ORDER FOR TECHNICAL REPORTS, SUTTER HOME WINERY,LODI, SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY On 31 July 2001, staff received a Report of Waste Discharge (RWD) for Sutter Home's proposed Phase I wastewater system at its Lodi winery. This letter describes staff s 22 August 2001 site inspection and our review of the RWD. During the inspection, it became apparent that the Sutter Home Winery is currently discharging waste in violation of the California Water Code; therefore, this letter also requires that Sutter Home submit several technical reports immediately, including a RWD for its existing (interim) wastewater disposal system. 22 August 2001 Site Inspection On 22 August 2001, staff inspected the Sutter Home Winery. A photograph log is attached for your information. This inspection was performed in response to receipt of a RWD which implied that the winery is under construction and that wastewater was not being generated. However, staff determined that the winery is currently operating, and that waste is being discharged in violation of Water Code Section 13260, which requires submittal of a RWD before beginning a discharge of waste. The existing wastewater treatment system consists of two mechanically aerated treatment ponds with subsequent discharge to land. Wastewater was not evenly distributed across the land application area, plant growth is not being removed, and effluent samples are not being collected so loading rates cannot be calculated. A wastewater storage pond is not available for use during periods of wet weather or when the ground is saturated. Groundwater in the area is very shallow, and there are no data to determine whether the storage or disposal of wastewater is impacting the underlying groundwater. Stormwater that falls on the tank farms is diverted to a stormwater pond; however, it is not clear how Sutter Home ensures that industrial wastewater is not mixed with the diverted stormwater. It is clear that substantial improvements to the treatment and disposal system will be required. California Environmental Protection Agency Qa Recycled Paper The energy challenge facing California is real. Every Californian needs to take immediate action to reduce energy consumption. For a list of simple ways you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs,see our Web-site at http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/mgcb5