Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings

The Water Quality Appeals Board hearing discussed the assessment of stream geometry and hydraulics, assuming a peak discharge of 5400 gallons per minute from the outfall. Measurements of infiltration rates were conducted at five different sites at various distances from the outfall on Harshaw Creek, as well as at two seeps upgradient of the outfall. These measured values were compared to literature values from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and NRCS for infiltration values. Grain size analysis was performed using a Federal Highway Administration's hydraulic toolbox to estimate the grain size gradation, concluding that the material was coarse-grained sand and gravel with little or no fines in the matrix.

The Office of Administrative Hearings' strategic plan focuses on contributing to the quality of life in Arizona by fairly and impartially hearing contested matters arising out of State regulation. Key areas include staying up-to-date with technological resources, ensuring electronic document exchange with state agencies and superior courts, and providing alternative dispute resolution options like mediation. The plan aims to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve litigant satisfaction by utilizing automation, refining electronic systems, and expanding mediation resources.