Watershed advisory groups (WAGs) provide local public input and guidance to DEQ during the development of water quality improvement plans or "Total Maximum Daily Loads" (TMDLs) for water bodies that fail to meet water quality standards. TMDLs are designed to reduce the levels of pollutants, such as bacteria and sediment, in impaired water bodies.

The Upper Hangman Creek Subbasin WAG and DEQ met from October 2006 to January 2007 to develop TMDLs for impaired water bodies in the subbasin. Link to agendas and presentations given at these meetings.

On February 20, 2007, DEQ issued a draft document entitled "Upper Hangman Creek Subbasin Assessment and Total Maximum Daily Loads." The document includes an assessment of the subbasin and a series of proposed TMDLs addressing pollution in the Hangman Creek (above and below its confluence with South Fork Hangman Creek), South Fork Hangman Creek, Tenas Creek, Martin Creek, Conrad Creek, Hill Creek, and Bunnel Creek. DEQ officially opened a 30-day public comment period from February 20 - March 21, 2007.  Comments received during this time have been incorporated into the document and can be found in Appendix H.  A summary of the document and its complete text may be viewed on DEQ's Upper Hangman Creek Subbasin Assessment and Total Maximum Daily Loads Web page.