JrutecTStates
nmenta! Protection
"(WH-556F
Tune 19"92
ERA Final Draft Monitorin
water Municipal
L Recyctedmecyclable
Printed on paper that contains
at least 50% faoyded fiber
-------
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1. INTRODUCTION 1-1
2. REGULATION OF OCEAN DUMPING AND
THE OBJECTIVES OF MONITORING 2-1
2.1 MARINE PROTECTION, RESEARCH, AND SANCTUARIES ACT ...2-1
2.2 OCEAN DUMPING REGULATIONS AND CRITERIA 2-3
2.3 OBJECTIVES OF MONITORING: APPLICATION
OF THE REGULATIpNS TO THE 106-MILE SITE... 2-5
3. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE 106-MILE SITE AND
THE SLUDGE DISPOSAL OPERATION 3-1
3.1 SITE CHARACTERISTICS 3-1
3.1.1. Physiography of the 106-Mile Site .3-1
3.1.2. Physical Oceanographic Conditions 3-4
3.1.2.1. Circulation within the Slope Sea 3-6
3.1.2.2. Hydrographic Conditions within
the Slope Sea *..... 3-9
3.1.2.3. The Gulf Stream and Warm-Core
Eddies 3-11
3.1.2.4. Shelf-Slope Exchange Processes. 313
3.1.3. Baseline Chemical and Biological Conditions. 3-15
3.2 WASTE CHARACTERISTICS AND DISPOSAL OPERATIONS 3-23
3.2.1 History of Waste Disposal at the
106-Mile Site 3-23
3.2.2 Use the 106-Mile Site 3-25
3.2.3 Characteristics of the Sludges 3-27
4 . FRAMEWORK OF THE MONITORING PROGRAM .4-1
4.1 POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF OCEAN DUMPING.
OF SEWAGE SLUDGE AT THE 106-MILE SITE . 4-2
4.1.1 Impingement of Sludge Onto Shorelines..4 4-4
4.1.2 Movement of Sludge Into Marine Sanctuaries,
Shellfishery, or Fishery Areas 4-4
4.1.3 Effects of Sludge Disposal on
Commercial Fisheries 4-5
4.1.4 Accumulation of Sludge Constituents in Biota....4-6
4.1.5 Progressive Changes in Water Quality... 4-7
4.1.6 Progressive Changes in Sediment Composition..... 4-8
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(Continued)
4.1.7 Impacts on Pollution-Sensitive Species
or Life-Cycle Stages 4_9
4.1.8 Impacts on Endangered Species..... 4-10
4.1.9 Progressive Changes in Biological Communities...4-11
4 . 2 MONITORING HYPOTHESES. 4-12
4.2.1 Assessment of Permit Compliance 4-13
4.2.1.1 Waste Characteristics.... 4-13
4.2.1.2 Disposal Operations 4-14
4.2.1.3 Nearfield Compliance 4-14
4.2.2 Assessment of Potential Impacts 4-15
4.2.2.1 Nearfield Fate.. ...4-15
4.2.2.2 Short-Term Effects 4-17
4.2.2.3 Farfield Fate 4-18
4.2.2.4 Long-Term Effects 4-19
5. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MONITORING PROGRAM. . , 5-1
5 .1 MONITORING TIERS . 5_2
5.1.1 Tier 1: Monitoring Sludge
Characteristics and Disposal
Operations 5-2
5.1.2 Tier 2: Monitoring Nearfield Fate
and Short-Term Effects 5-4
5.1.3 Tier 3: Monitoring Farfield Fate 5-5
5.1.4 Tier 4: Monitoring Long-Term Effects 5-5
5 .2 MONITORING ACTIVITIES 5_6
'!.
5.2.1 Tier 1: Sludge Characteristics and
Disposal Operations 5-6
5.2.2 Tier 2: Nearfield Fate and Short-Term Effects 5-8
5.2.3 Tier 3: Farfield Fate 5-11
5.2.4 Tier 4: Long-Term Effects; 5-12
5.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE 5_13
5.3.1 Personnel Qualifications 5-14
'5.3.2 Facilities, Equipment, and Services 5-14
5.3.3 Data Generation and Recordkeeping 5-14
5.3.4 Data Quality Assessment 5-16
5.4 DATA MANAGEMENT. 5-16
6 . REFERENCES 6-1
-------
l. INTRODUCTION
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under the
Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 (MPRSA,
PL 92-532), is responsible for regulating disposal of sewage
sludge in ocean waters. This responsibility includes developing
and maintaining effective monitoring programs for ocean disposal
sites designated by EPA. The basis and structure of the
monitoring program for the 106-Mile Deepwater Municipal Sludge
Site (106-Mile Site), designated in 1984 for disposal of
municipal sludges, is described in this document. A separate
plan for implementing the monitoring program discussed here is
presented in a companion document ( EPA , 1992 ).
EPA's responsibilities for regulating disposal of sewage
sludge into marine waters encompass not only monitoring, but also
designation of appropriate sites for disposal and issuance of
ocean dumping permits. The site designation process is designed
to provide suitable sites for ocean dumping, based on need for a
site and on indications that unacceptable impacts to human health
and the environment will not occur. The permitting process
further restricts disposal activities to those that allow only
limited environmental effects of individual dumping operations,
as well as limited cumulative effects from multiple or con .inuing
activities. In designating sites and issuing permits, EPA
assumes that criteria for site designation and permitting are
sufficient to protect the marine environment as prescribed by the
MPRSA. Monitoring programs such as the one described in this
document are designed 1) to verify compliance with permit
requirements and 2) to verify that compliance with permit
requirements does in fact to protect the environment (Zeller and
Wastler, 1986).
1-1
-------
Development of EPA's plan for monitoring sludge disposal
at the 106-Mile Site has benefited from the work of many others
who have also proposed monitoring plans for the site or who have
used the 1'06-Mile Site as a case study in works describing
effective approaches to ocean monitoring. Several authors have
suggested that ,a step-wise approach to monitoring provides for
the most effective use of resources and results in the most
useful information (e.g., EG&G, 1983; Segar et al., 1984; Segar
and Stammen, 1985; Zeller and Wastler, 1986). Plans have also
been developed based on review of other long-term oceanic
monitoring activities and previously proposed monitoring plans
for deepwater dumpsites (CDM, 1984). A plan based on an
iterative series of measurements suggested from models of sludge
dispersion has been proposed (O'Connor et al., 1985). The sludge
dispersion models were based on the characteristics of the
106-Mile Site and on the sludges to be disposed there.
This monitoring plan for the 106-Mile Site has built on
those previous plans. It has been developed using an approach
based on the current ocean dumping regulations and designed to
provide for efficient and effective monitoring results that can
be used in making management decisions. In its entirety, this
approach has the following steps:
1) Development of a conceptual framework for the
program.
2) Statement of objectives of the program.
3) Development of null hypotheses.
4) Grouping the hypotheses into "tiers."
5) Selection of parameters and the associated methods
to collect data on those parameters.
6) Description of the variability of those parameters
within the natural system.
7) Generation of a sampling and analysis design that
will allow detection of changes in parameter values
of significance to site managers.
1-2
-------
»
This document is the result of Steps 1 through 4 of the
approach, those steps that provide the theoretical structure to
.the overall monitoring program. The document introduces the
activities that may be included under Step 5, which is to select
the specific measurements that are included in the program. The
implementation plan that accompanies this document elaborates on
Step 5 and describes the remaining steps for implementing the
monitoring program.
The conceptual framework of the monitoring program (Step 1)
for the 106-Mile Site (Figure 1-1) is grounded in the provision
of the ocean dumping regulations that monitoring programs include
assessment of compliance with permit conditions and assessment of
potential impacts of disposal of wastes. For the 106-Mile Site,
existing information about characteristics of the site and of the
sludges to be disposed has been used in determining specific
conditions of the waste disposal permits and making a first
determination of what sort of impacts may occur. Because of the
great depths and dispersive nature of the 106-Mile Site, it is
especially important that the monitoring program consider site
characteristics when assessing the potential for impacts
associated with sludge disposal. (Note that setting permit
conditions is not part of-the monitoring program. However,
because monitoring compliance with those conditions is one
important part of the overall monitoring program, determination
of permit conditions is part of the overall conceptual
framework.)
These permit conditions and potential impacts are used in
formulating the null hypotheses to be tested in a program that
monitors permit compliance and impact assessment. Null
hypotheses are predictions presented as statements that can be
1-3
-------
SITE CHARACTERISTICS
Physical Oceanography
Geology
Baseline Chemistry Data
Baseline Biology Data
WASTE CHARACTERISTICS
Physical Characteristics
Chemical Constituents
Toxicology
PERMIT CONDITIONS
Sludge Characteristics
Disposal Operations
POTENTIAL IMPACTS
Shoreline Impingement
Movement into Marine Sanctuaries
Effect on Commercial Fisheries
Accumulations in Biota
Changes in Water Quality
Changes in Sediment Composition
Absence of Sensitive Species
Absence of Endangered Species
Changes in Bic'ogical Communities
IMPLEMENTATION OF MONITORING
Waste Characteristics and
Disposal Operations Measurements
Fate and Effects Measurements
EVALUATION OF MONITORING RESULTS
Assessment of Permit Compliance
Assessment of Impact through
Comparison with Baseline Data
DESIGNATION
Redesignation
Oedesignation
SITE MANAGEMENT DECISIONS
PERMITTING MONITORING
Revocation . Modification
Modification Termination
FIGURE 1-1.
FRAMEWORK OF THE 106-MILE SITE -MONITORING PROGRAM:
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SITE AND THE WASTE GUIDE THE
PROGRAM.
-------
disproves. Results-from testing the null hypotheses are compared
to permit conditions to assess compliance. Results may also be
compared to baseline information to determine whether impacts
have or have not occurred. These evaluations may then be used in
decisions about site redesignation or dedesignation and permit
continuation, modification, or revocation. They may also be used
to make decisions about continuing, changing, or terminating the
monitoring program itself.
The remainder of this document describes the monitoring
program for the 106-Mile Site following the first steps of the
general approach described above and using the framework
introduced in Figure 1-1. Chapter 2 describes the regulatory
basis for the program, the objectives of monitoring that are
founded in those regulations, and the ultimate uses of data
generated by the program. Chapter 3 describes the current
understanding of the characteristics of the 106-Mile Site and of
the sludge to be disposed there. Chapter 4 describes how this
regulatory basis and the site and waste characteristics have been
used to develop predictions of possible impacts that could occur
from the disposal process and presents the null hypotheses that
these predictions suggest. Chapter 5 presents an overview of the
implementation of this approach to monitoring, including a
description of how questions about impacts of waste disposal have
been organized into tiers. Chapter 5 also briefly presents the
activities that may be included in the monitoring program and
describes the provisions for quality assurance and data
management that are being implemented.
1-5
-------
2. REGULATION OF OCEAN. DUMPING AND
THE OBJECTIVES OF MONITORING
EPA's responsibilities under the MPRSA (33 USC §§ 1401-1445)
include the development and maintenance of effective monitoring
programs for ocean dumpsites. In 1977, EPA published final
regulations and criteria for transportation of materials for the
purpose of ocean dumping (40 CFR Parts 220-229). These
regulations provide a framework for the development of ocean
dumpsite monitoring programs. The monitoring program described
in this document for the 106-Mile Site is consistent with the
management authority provided to EPA under the ocean dumping
regulations and is driven by the guidelines presented therein.
2.1 MARINE PROTECTION, RESEARCH, AND SANCTUARIES ACT
Under the MPRSA, it is U.S. policy to "regulate the dumping
of all types of materials into ocean waters and to prevent or
strictly limit the dumping into ocean waters of any material
which would adversely affect human health, welfare, or amenities,
or the marine environment, ecological systems, or economic
potentialities" (33 USC §1401[b]). The MPRSA gives the
Administrator of 1ZPA the authority to establish specific criteria
and regulations governing the ocean disposal of nondredged
materials. In establishing these regulations, EPA is directed to
consider the nine factors presented in Figure 2-1 (33 USC
S1412[a]).
When establishing regulations and criteria for ocean
dumping, the MPRSA also requires EPA to consider applicable water
quality standards and the standards binding upon the United
States under the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution
by Dumping of Wastes and Other-Matter (the London Dumping
2-1
-------
FACTORS IN ESTABLISHING OCEAN DUMPING REGULATIONS
(A) The need for the proposed dumping
(B) The effect of such dumping on human health and welfare,
including economic, aesthetic, and recreational values
(C) The effect of such dumping on fisheries resources, plankton,
fish, shellfish, wildlife, shorelines, and beaches
(D) The effect of such dumping on marine ecosystems -.
(E) The persistence and permanence of the effects of the dumping
(F) The effect of dumping particular volumes and concentrations
of such materials
(G) Appropriate locations and methods of disposal or recycling,
including landbased alternatives and the probable impact of
requiring use of such alternative locations or methods
upon considerations affecting the public.
(H) The effect or such dumping on alternate uses of oceans, such as
scientific study, fishing and other living resource exploitations.
and nonliving resource exploitations
(I) In designating recommended sites, the Administrator shall utilize
wherever feasible locations beyond the edge of the continental shelf.
FIGURE 2-1. THE MPRSA DIRECTS EPA TO CONSIDER SPECIFIC FACTORS IN
ESTABLISHING OCEAN DUMPING REGULATIONS.
2-2
-------
Convention). In this respect', the MPRSA is the enabling domestic
legislation for the London Dumping Convention, which was ratified
by the United States in 1974 (EPA, 1977).
2.2 OCEAN DUMPING REGULATIONS AND CRITERIA
On October 15, 1973 under the authority granted by the
MPRSA, EPA published regulations and criteria for ocean disposal
of wastes (38 FR 28610). Revised regulations (hereafter referred
to as the existing regulations) were published on January 11,
1977 (40 CFR Parts 220-229, 42 FR 2462). EPA is currently
revising the existing regulations in response to statutory
amendments, public comment, operating experience, and advances in
scientific understanding of the impact of ocean dumping on the
marine environment.
The existing ocean dumping regulations address the three
site management functions presented in Figure 2-2 (40 CFR
§228.3). These functions consist of conducting disposal site
evaluation and designation studies and recommending modifications
in site use and/or designation (site designation); regulating
times, rates, and methods of disposal and.quantities and types of
materials that can be disposed (permitting); and developing and
maintaining effective monitoring programs for dumpsites (site
monitoring). Although this document deals with site monitoring,
it should be emphasized that the three management functions are
interdependent and are intended to prevent unreasonable
degradation of the marine environment by wastes being dumped in
the ocean (40 CFR §228.1).
The dumping of wastes into the ocean is permitted only at
sites selected to minimize interference of disposal activities
with other activities in the marine environment. Particular
consideration is given to avoiding areas with existing fisheries
or shellfisheries areas and regions of heavy commercial or
2-3
-------
c
_o
T>
0
~ Q
t °-
_ 09 DO
UJ £ o
or S S £
< o o g 1
o c -r ">
UJ 5 .2 fc £
|_ "5
V> Q. £
> 0
UJ 0
O
MONITORIN
UJ
K-
CO
0
1-
t£
Ul
a.
z
o
^B
^
o
CO
UJ
0
Ul
CO
0
°o
IN
1
en
00
IN
UT)
in
o
"5
0>
I
*
eo
co'
1
i
*
o
eu
O
0
0)
Q)
to
eo
i/5
to
CO
o
T3
c
o
to
Impingement
into Marine
Shoreline
Movement
1 1
"" tfl
o ^
«n c
5 *
8-2
5 ^
o §
«, «
0 a,
0 o»
£ "°
^ =
S to
1 1
M
OT O
O tt
a> 'z
t- <
^^ _
« 0
'LT O
0) O)
.2 "I
U. Z
5 -5
S S
ll
'o '5
< -^
1 1
in
eu
"C*
CO
to
IT
Commercial 1
lion in Biota
M
~ I
- §
UJ <
1 1
0)
Disposal Rate
Limiting Permissabi
1 1
10
G?
JJ^
to
a>
"S "o
D $
Q. ^
E a>
~~ o
O.
tn.
c -2
.2 o>
5 °
s s
* ^
if tt
I I
_>>
"B
<§
b.
a>
1
c
M
O)
C7>
O
0
1
Concentrations
M
a*
*^f
to
^^
o
u
*c
_o
I
W
S
s
a>
£
"5
it
1
c
_o
"ifl
o
ex
1
in Sediment I
to
1
0
u
1
o
o
o
s
c.
a>
1
1
M
eo
"o
a
a.
to
of Sensitive
Absence
1
M
o
°0
0)
a.
to
o
0>
^
0)
0>
o
o
£
"o
Absence
1
U)
a>
?
C
3
1
in Biological
M
CO
o>
c
o
o
1
to
LU
LU
«N
(N
fM
I
(N
fN
IN
Ul
I
cr
u.
u
en
CA
O
O)
S.
CVI
esj
LU
Oi
2-4
-------
recreati.onal navigation (40 CF-R §228.5[ a]). Once a site is
designated as an approved ocean dumpsite, permits must be issued
by the proper EPA authority before dumping can begin. Permit
application review and approval proceeds according to the
guidelines in Parts 220-224 and 227 of the existing ocean dumping
regulations. The times and quantities of materials dumped at a
particular site are regulated by denying permits for the disposal
of certain materials and by imposing specific disposal conditions
on approved materials. In addition to setting limitations on
times and rates of dumping by permits, EPA regulates dumpsite use
through the establishment of site monitoring programs. Such
programs evaluate the impact of dumping on the marine environment
by comparing the monitoring results to a set of baseline
conditions (40 CFR §228.9[a]).
2.3 OBJECTIVES OF MONITORING; APPLICATION OF
THE REGULATIONS TO THE 106-MILE SITE
The ocean dumping regulations were developed with the goal
of preventing unreasonable degradation of the marine environment
by ocean dumping activities. A management tool provided by the
regulations for achieving this goal is site monitoring.
Therefore, the overall objective of the monitoring program
developed for the 106-Mile Site is to protect the marine
environment b., ensuring that the regulations are being met. This
objective will be attained by
Assessing whether ocean dumping permit conditions
are being met.
Assessing whether dumping of sludge adversely
impacts resources or other aspects of the marine
environment.
An underlying assumption made by the ocean dumping permit
program is that compliance with permit conditions and dumpsite
management requirements is sufficient to protect the marine
2-5
-------
environment (Zeller and Wastler, 1986). However, predictions of
no adverse impacts implicit in the permitting process are based
on best estimates involving site and waste characteristics and
toxicity of sludges or sludge constituents. Changes in these
variables over time or uncertainty in the predictions might
affect the predicted impacts. Therefore, the monitoring program
developed for the 106-Mile Site is intended to test the
compliance assumption using data directed at determining 1) if
dumping operations are being conducted in compliance with
conditions stated in the permits, and 2) if dumping under these
permit conditions results in an adverse impact on the marine
environment.
Data generated during the monitoring program will primarily
be used to address the three site management functions (Figure
2-3). Monitoring results will be used to make permitting
decisions (continuation of, changes to, or revocation of
permits), site designation decisions (redesignation or
dedesignation) and monitoring decisions (continuation of, changes
to, or termination of monitoring). in addition, the results of
the monitoring program will be useful in verifying the various
models available for predicting transport and fate of dumped
materials in the ocean. Although model testing is not an
objective of the program, verification of models could result in
their increased use for site management.
The 106-Mile Site monitoring program is designed to produce
results that are directly applicable to regulatory and site
management questions. The program avoids research activities
that do not provide necessary information to site managers. The
program does consider, however, that certain directed research
activities will be important for ensuring that predictions of
potential impacts and subsequent management decisions are based
on appropriate scientific theory.
2-6
-------
USES OF MONITORING DATA
FROM THE
106-MILE MONITORING PROGRAM
IN
SITE MANAGEMENT
Permitting Decisions
Continuation of Permits
Changes to Permit Conditions
Revocation of Permits
Site Designation Decisions
Site Redesignation
Site Dedesignation
Monitoring Program Decisions
> Continuation of Monitoring
Changes to the Monitoring Program
Termination of Monitoring
FIGURE 2-3. DATA GENERATED BY THE 106-MILE SITE MONITORING PROGRAM
WILL BE USED IN MAKING SITE MANAGEMENT DECISIONS.
2-7
-------
3. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE 106-MII.E SITE AND
THE SLUDGE DISPOSAL OPERATION
A wealth of information on chemical and physical
characteristics and baseline biological conditions at the
106-Mile Site is available from studies performed during the past
decade. This information has been considered in the development
of the monitoring program and will be considered as the baseline
against which monitoring results will be compared. Potential
impacts will be predicted using information on site and waste
characteristics and on the expected behavior of the sludges
(Figure 3-1). The monitoring program will determine if and where
impacts are likely to occur (i.e., where sludge is transported)
and then will assess the magnitude of these impacts.
3.1 SITE CHARACTERISTICS
The following sections briefly summarize the information
available on the physiography, physical oceanography, and baseline
chemical and biological characteristics of the 106-Mile Site and
surrounding regions.
3.1.1 Physiography of the 106-Mile Site
The 106-Mile Site is located approximately 120 nautical miles
southeast of Ambrose Light, New York, and 115 nautical miles from
the nearest coastline (Figure 3-2). The site is approximately 100
square nautical miles and is bounded by 38°40'00" to 39°00'00"
north latitude and 72°00'00" to 72°05'00" west longitude. The
site is seaward of the continental shelf, covering portions of
both the continental slope and rise, in water depths that range
from 2250 to 2750 meters. When designating the site, the
significant dispersive forces, deep permanent stratification, and
3-1
-------
SITE CHARACTERISTICS
Physical Oceanography
Hydrography
Currents
Water Masses
Bottom Characteristics
Sediment Grain Size
Sediment Composition
Baseline Chemistry Data
Sediments
Water Column
- WaUr Quality
Metals
Organic Compounds
Microbiology
Baseline Biology Data
Plankton
Endangered Species
Benthic Communities
WASTE CHARACTERISTICS
Physical Characteristics
Settling Data
Chemical Characteristics
Priority Pollutants
Conventional Pollutants
Toxicology
Bioassays
Disposal Operations
Quantity of Material
Method of Release
Frequency and Duration
CONSIDERATION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS
Shoreline Impingement
Movement into Marine Sanctuaries
Effect on Commercial Fisheries
Accumulation in Biota
Changes in Water Quality
Changes in Sediment Composition
Effects on Sensitive Species
Effects on Endangered Species
Effects on Biological Communities
FIGURE 3-1.
INFORMATION ON CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SITE AND OF THE
SLUDGES WILL BE USED TO PREDICT POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF
SLUDGE DISPOSAL AT THE SITE.
3-2
-------
Municipal Sludge Site ^
K_r
72° '
FIGURE 3-2.
THE 106-MILE SITE IS SITUATED OFF THE COAST OF NEW JERSEY,
BEYOND THE CONTINENTAL SHELF.
3-3
-------
great distance of the site from shore were considered to ensure
that potential impacts associated with dumping would be minimal
(49 FR 19005) .
Sediments within the site are predominantly silt and clay,
which are characteristic of the Mid-Atlantic continental slope and
rise (NOAA, 1983). Sediments found on the slope in the vicinity
of the site are fine-grained, suggesting weak near-bottom currents
(NOAA, 1977). At the slope-rise boundary, however, the paucity of
fine-grained sediments implies that currents are sufficiently high
to transport recently accumulated sediments out of the area.
3.1.2 Physical Oceanographic Conditions
The physical oceanographic environment at the 106-Mile Site
will play a ma-jor role in the transport and fate of sewage sludge
dumped at the site. A variety of physical processes, having time
scales from hours to seasons and length scales from meters to
hundreds of kilometers, govern the advection and mixing of
regional water masses and consequently, the motion of any
pollutants discharged at the site. Because the density of sewage
sludge is close to that of seawater, the sludge constituents may
take several weeks or longer to reach the se'a'floor, during which
time they may he horizontally advected great distances from their'
point of discharge. Therefore, a large-scale view of the regional
oceanographic processes is required in order to assess the mixing
characteristics and ultimate fate of sewage sludge dumped at the
site.
To date, the most useful data for characterization of
currents and hydrographic conditions at the site were obtained
from the Mid-Atlantic Slope and Rise Physical Oceanographic Study
(MASAR/POS) funded by the Minerals Management Service (MMS); this
study of Gulf Stream dynamics was conducted in conjunction with
the MASAR/POS program and the Shelf Edge Exchange Processes (SEEP)
program funded by the Department of Energy (DOE). Figure 3-3
3-4
-------
EPA Current Meter Mooring
DOI/MMS Physical Oceanography
Study
A DOE Shelf Edge Exchange
Processes
Inverted Echo Sounders with
Current Meters
O Inverted Echo Sounders
O NDBO Wind Measurement Buoys
6-Month MMS Moorings
FIGURE 3-3. SEVERAL RECENT PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHY STUDIES HAVE BEEN
CONDUCTED IN THE VICINITY OF THE 106-MILE SITE.
3-5
-------
shows where instrumented moorings were-maintained during these
measurement programs (1982 through 1986). Historic data are also
available from numerous site-specific studies along the
continental slope and rise of the mid-Atlantic region. Synthesis
of the results from these individual programs yields a practical,
conceptual description of the circulatory and mixing processes in
the vicinity of the 106-Mile Site, as described below.
3.1.2.1 Circulation within the Slope Sea
The 106-Mile Site is situated within a complex oceanographic
region called the slope sea, which is bounded by the Gulf Stream
on the south and the continental shelf waters to the north.
Although the Gulf Stream and slope sea have been studied since the
1930s, the dynamics of this region have only recently been
reasonably well resolved, primarily as a result of the MASAR/POS
and SEEP programs.
Csanady and Hamilton (1987) have used recent and historic
data to construct a conceptual model of the circulation within the
slope sea. The major feature in their circulation model is a
large cyclonic (anticlockwise) gyre that lies between the Gulf
Stream and the edge of the continental shelf (Figure 3-4). The
majority of the transport is confined within a recirculating gyre
that extends from the Carolinas to a region southeast of New
England. The size and intensity of the gyre are expected to vary
in response to changes in the position of the Gulf Stream, the
strength of the inflow from the Labrador Sea, and the intensity of
the large-scale wind stress.. Large perturbations such as Gulf
Stream meanders and warm-core eddies are essentially superimposed
on this basic circulation.
The 106-Mile Site is situated in the strongest part of the
southwestward flowing, inshore side of the anticlockwise slope sea
gyre. This is consistent with the moderate (~10 cm/s)
3-6
-------
50°-
45° H
Shelf Edge
-J
70'
60'
50'
FIGURE 3-4. CONCEPTUAL MODEL OF THE CIRCULATION IN THE UPPER LAYERS OF
THE SLOPE WATER FROM CSANADY AND HAMILTON (1987). THE
106-MILE SITE IS SHOWN IN THE INSHORE ARM OF THE SLOPE SEA
GYRE. THE DASHED LINES INDICATE THE EDGE OF THE
CONTINENTAL SHELF AND THE HISTORIC MEAN POSITION OF THE
NORTHERN EDGE OF THE GULF STREAM.
3-7
-------
southwestward mean currents that have been observed during
numerous current measurement programs in the region. Evidence for
a distinct northeastward return flow along the northern edge of
the Gulf Stream has been observed in sea surface temperature maps
derived from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR)
on polar-orbiting satellites. Cool, relatively fresh water is
often observed extending in a narrow band from the outer shelf off
Chesapeake Bay to the north side of the Gulf Stream, a .total
distance of several hundred kilometers.
The position of the Gulf Stream has a significant effect upon
the characteristics of the southwestward flow within the inshore
arm of the slope sea gyre. Moored current data from the two-year
MASAR/POS monitoring program illustrate that southwestward flow in
the vicinity of the 106-Mile Site is most intense when the Gulf
Stream is displaced 100 km north of its historical mean position
(a condition that can persist for months). In this configuration,
the width of the slope sea gyre io reduced considerably and the
northeastward return flow of the gyre may lie close to the
southern boundary of the 106-Mile Site. Although the dynamics of
this Gulf Stream/slope-sea-gyre interaction are not well
understood, it remains an important topic because of its potential
effect upon the long-term, farfield transport of sludge dumped at
the 106-Mile Site.
The preceding discussion has concentrated on the circulation
processes within the upper (0 to roughly 500-m) layer of the slope
sea. Because sludge particles settle through the water column,
the deep circulation over the slope and rise also must be
considered. Strong (20 to 60-cm/s) fluctuating currents have been
observed near the bottom on the continental rise of the
Mid-Atlantic Bight. These fluctuations are due to long-period (10
to 100-day) planetary waves generated by meanders of the Gulf
Stream. The near-bottom, wave-induced currents may be strong
enough to resuspend and transport fine sludge particles that had
been deposited during periods of less intense current activity.
3-8
-------
The near-bottom mean flow on the continental rise and lower
portions of the slope is associated with the southwestward flow of
the Western Boundary Undercurrent (WBUC), which originates at high
northern latitudes. Mean currents of 2 to 3 cm/s have been
observed parallel to isobaths along the slope. Sludge particles
that settle to the depth of this semipermanent current system
would be advected to the southwest. This flow eventually passes
beneath the Gulf Stream in the vicinity of Cape Hatteras.
3.1.2.2 Hydrographic Conditions within the Slope Sea
The temperature, salinity, and vertical density structure
within the upper water column are important characteristics that
affect mixing and dispersion of sludge dumped at the 106-Mile
Site. Walker et al. (1987) have shown that mixed-layer depth is a
governing parameter in models of farfield dispersion of sludge
plumes. '
The upper layers of the slope sea in spring and summer
generally consist of a well-mixed layer situated above the main
thermocline between about 50 and 150 m, This layer, named the
slopewater pycnostad (meaning constant density), is formed by
convective overturning in late winter due to the cumulative effect
of winter storms and intense atmospheric cooling. The temperature
and salinity characteristics of this pycnostad are roughly 12°C
and 35.5 ppt, respectively. Above the pycnostad, an intense
seasonal pycnocline is formed in summer by surface warming of the
upper water column. Sharp vertical gradients of temperature and
salinity also exist in this feature during summer and early fall.
When wind and wave (mixing) conditions have been mild for many
days, this seasonal pycnocline may approach the sea surface, but
storms and autumn cooling can form a mixed layer at the surface,
thus eroding the seasonal pycnocline from above. Continued
surface mixing through autumn and early winter completely erodes
the seasonal pycnocline until surface waters can mix vertically
3-9
-------
with the-slopewater-pycnostad.' By late winter, the surface mixed
layer extends down to the main pycnocline, often reaching depths
in excess of 300 m.
The temperature and salinity characteristics at the 106-Mile
Site are generally representative of the slope water mass. They
differ significantly from the warm, relatively saline waters of
the Gulf Stream to the south, and the highly variable
characteristics of the shelf water to the north. Gulf Stream
water can displace the surface waters of the slope sea by means of
filaments, warm outbreaks, and extrusions. Filaments are shallow
(20 to 50-m deep) elongated fingers of Gulf Stream water that
trail from the crests of Gulf Stream meanders. Warm outbreaks are
similar to, but larger, than filaments and persist for several
weeks, as observed by satellite thermal imagery. Extrusions are
usually due to the interaction of the Gulf Stream with warm-core
eddies.
Water mass exchange events can also occur with the shelf
water mass due to warm-core eddies, offshore wind stress, and
upper slope eddies. Hydrographic sections that transect the slope
sea often show large, subsurface, elliptical parcels of cool,
relatively fresh water that have been displaced from the shelf.
Some of these isolated water parcels may actually remain attached-
to the shelf-slope water mass front through complicated
three-dimensional structures. The complexity and heterogeneity of
the upper 50 to 75 in of the water column at the 106-Mile Site
suggest that isolated hydrocasts (especially during summer and
early fall) may be insufficient, .for resolution of the water mass
structures within the region.
In summary, the hydrographic information from past studies
in the vicinity of the 106-Mile Site indicates that sludge dumped
in the slope water during late winter could be readily mixed over
the upper 200 m of the water column. In late summer and through
autumn, an intense seasonal pycnocline will limit vertical mixing
3-10
-------
to roughly the upper 20 m of the water column. Observations of
complex patterns of distinctly different water masses in the upper
50 to 75 m of the slope sea suggest that moderate-sized parcels of
sludge water may be confined to a distinct water mass, thus
implying that local mixing (dispersion) may be less effective than
horizontal advection for the transport of sludge particles away
from their point of discharge within the 106-Mile Site.
3.1.2.3 The Gulf Stream and Warm-Core Eddies
The MASAR/POS program demonstrated that the Gulf Stream
profoundly influences the circulation over the slope and may, on
occasion, lie over the 106-Mile Site. The position of the Gulf
Stream axis is highly variable as it leaves the continental margin
at Cape Hatteras and behaves like a free, meandering jet carrying
relatively warm, saline waters into the northwest Atlantic.
Maximum current speeds reaching 200 cm/s are found at the surface
within the Gulf Stream. Strong currents generally persist from
the surface to depths of 1000 m.
Statistical analyses of satellite-derived Gulf Stream
positions indicate that it is quite rare for the Gulf Stream
to lie over the 106-Mile Site, but when it does, current speeds at
the site are up to 10 times greater than during normal slope sea
conditions. These events normally persist for several days.
Because of the strong (200 cm/s) northeastward currents and the
intense vertical and horizontal current shears that are known to
exist within the Gulf Stream, a sludge release into one of these
Gulf Stream events is the most favorable situation for rapid
dispersion. The only adverse effect of dumping sludge within the
Gulf Stream is that the material will be rapidly advected out of
the eastern boundary of the site, possibly beforfe the plumes can
be diluted sufficiently to meet lowest permissible concentrations
of water quality criteria. Note that if sludge were discharged at
the western boundary of the 7.2-km-wide (5' of longitude) dumpsite
and into a Gulf Stream current flowing eastward at 200 cm/s, it
3-11
-------
would tak'e only 1 ho'ur for the material to reach the eastern
boundary of the site. This oceanographic condition could have
major implications for meeting permit requirements at the 106-Mile
Site.
Intense (>150 cm/s) currents at the 106-Mile Site can also be
caused by the large northward meanders that propagate eastward
along the northern edge of the Gulf Stream. These meanders vary
in size and phase propagation, but they normally travel at a rate
of 20 to 40 km/day with periods ranging from 4 to 100 days.
Current speeds within these features are often equivalent to those
observed within the Gulf Stream, but current direction can vary
» . ,,,.,,, , ,.
greatly on time scales of a few days. Because these features have
clockwise circulation while they propagate eastward along the
northern boundary of the Gulf Stream, an Eulerian (moored) current
measurement would normally show southward, eastward, then
northward flow during the passage of a meander. Westward current
flow is highly unlikely during meander events.
Large meanders can pinch off from the northern edge of the
Gulf Stream to produce clockwise-rotating, warm-core eddies that
are absorbed by the relatively cool, fresh, slope water mass.
Warm-core eddies are essentially bowl-shaped parcels of Gulf
Stream and Sargasso Sea water with a diameter of about 100 to 150
km, a depth of 1 km at their centers, and a maximum orbital speed
of about 150 cm/s. After formation, these eddies generally move
southwestward within the slope sea at rates from 2 to 6 km/day.
These eddies have complex life histories before they .coalesce with
the Gulf Stream, often near Cape Hatteras. Warm-core eddies can
interact with the Gulf Stream and shelf waters, extruding warm and
cold streamers, respectively, from these water masses, which can
wrap around the outer edges of the eddy. The passage of an eddy
along the slope can apparently trigger waves and instabilities on
the shelf-slope water mass front, creating smaller, warm- and
3-12
-------
cold-core, eddies. These newly 'discovered small (20 to 50-km
diameter) eddies may play an important role in the exchange of
shelf and slope waters.
Statistics on warm-core eddies indicate that from five to
eight eddies are spawned from the Gulf Stream in a typical year,
and average lifetimes range from 2 to 12 months. Because they
contain Gulf Stream water, these eddies represent an enclosed
environment having physical, chemical, and biological
characteristics that differ greatly from the slope water mass in
which they reside. As first-order approximation, any sludge that
is dumped within an eddy may remain trapped within the closed
system for the life of the eddy. Vertical and horizontal current
shear within these eddies is large, which would cause significant
(localized) dispersion of sludge, but waters from the center
portion of an eddy generally undergo minimal exchange with the
surrounding waters of the slope sea. On occasion, eddies have
been observed with spiral-shaped filaments of shelf or slope water
within their centers, suggesting that lateral exchange processes
may occur, at least at the sea surface.
3.1.2.4 Shelf-Slope Exchange Processes
The most important, yet difficult, issue in determining the
fate of sludge dumped at the 106-Mile Site is related to the
exchange of material through the shelf-slope front and
consequently, into the highly productive waters of the outer
continental shelf.. Mechanisms proposed for this exchange include
1) the generation of lateral intrusions due to the passage of warm
core Gulf Stream eddies, 2) frontal instabilities, 3) the effects
of small clockwise and anticlockwise eddies on the upper slope, 4)
wind-forced and density-driven intrusions, and 5) small-scale
mixing processes such as double diffusion and caballing. The
small-scale processes produce episodic events of limited duration
3-13
-------
(minutes.to hours) and spatial'extent (centimeters to tens of
meters), whereas the lateral intrusion mechanisms have larger
scales and longer durations.
These onshore-offshore flux mechanisms have yet to be studied
extensively; consequently they are not well understood. Most of
the evidence is from satellite imagery and hydro-graphic sections
across the shelf and slope. With the available information and
dynamical theories, there is, however, little doubt that sludge
discharged within the slope water could eventually penetrate onto
the shelf via one of these transport mechanisms. The probability
of this occurrence can be determined only after additional
observational and theoretical studies of the dynamics within the
shelf-slope region.
3.1.3 Baseline Chemical and Biological Conditions
Baseline data concerning chemical and biological conditions
at the site are an integral part of the monitoring program
because this information, along with data on waste character-
istics and physical conditions at the site, will be used to
formulate predictions of potential impacts. A large body of
information is already available for this purpose through studies
funded by EPA and other federal agencies. A complete description
of many of these programs can be found in EPA (1986).
Baseline information includes water column and sediment
chemistry and data on pelagic,- demersal and benthic biology as
well as specific information on endangered species in the area.
These data have been used to refine and verify predictions of
potential impact and also will be used to determine changes over
time that are associated with sludge disposal operations.
3-14
-------
Baseline information on water column chemistry and water
quality at the 106-Mile Site will be used to determine if any
changes in these variables attributable to dumping operations
occur over time. Water column stations that have been sampled in
the vicinity of the 106-Mile Site are presented in Figure 3-5.
Surveys that have occupied these stations include a series of EPA
baseline surveys at the site from 1984 to 1986, EPA surveys at
the North Atlantic Incineration Site from 1983 to 1985,
hydrographic stations occupied during the MASAR/POS study, and
water quality stations sampled during the Northeast Monitoring
Program funded by NOAA.
Average monthly dissolved oxygen levels at the surface
within the 106-Mile Site range from 4.9 ml/liter in August to 7.5
ml/liter in April (Warsh, 1975). The oxygen minimum zone is
located between 200 and 300 meters, with oxygen values ranging
from 3.0 ml/liter in February to 3.5 ml/liter in September. An
oxygen maximum zone develops during several months, ranging from
7.0 ml/liter at 30 meters during August to 8.2 ml/liter at 10
meters during February. Results of a study on heavy metals in
the water column at the 106-Mile Site indicated that levels of
mercury and zinc were comparable to those found in the open ocean
and on the continental shelf (Hausknecht, 1977). Background
concentrations of cadmium, copper, and lead in the water column
at the site we^j considered comparable to other oceanic regions
(EPA, 1980).
Information on sediment chemistry at the 106-Mile Site will
be needed for much the same reason as the water column data; to
document potential changes in sediment composition resulting from
dumping operations. Figure 3-6 shows the locations of sediment
chemistry stations that have been sampled during several
programs. These stations include those sampled during two EPA
baseline surveys at the site, stations occupied during Studies of
Biological Processes of the North and Mid-Atlantic Slope and Rise
3-15
-------
NEW : :
HAMPSHIRE:
.^^*5:.^
A EPA 106 Mite Site Baseline Surveys
1984 - 1986
O NOAA Northeast Monitoring Program
1 979 - Ongoing
DOI/MMS Physical Oceanography
Study 1983 - 1986
EPA North Atlantic Incineration Site
Surveys 1 983 - 1 985
FIGURE 3-5.
MANY STUDIES HAVE SAMPLED THE WATER COLUMN IN THE VICINITY
OF THE 106-MILE SITE.
3-16
-------
O EPA 106 Mile Site Baseline Surveys
1984 - 1986
DOE Shelf Edge Exchange Processes 1
1982 - 1985
A DOI/MMS Mid Atlantic Slope and Rise 38e
1984-1986
NOAA Northeast Monitoring Program
1 979 - Ongoing
O OOI/MMS North Atlantic Slope and Rise
(partial) 1 984 - 1 987
NOAA Baseline Report on Dumpsite 106
1974 - 1976
FIGURE 3-6. MANY STUDIES CONDUCTED AT THE 106-MILE SITE HAVE INCLUDED
SAMPLING SEDIMENTS FOR BASELINE CHEMISTRY INFORMATION.
3-17
-------
sponsored by MMS, DOE's SEEP statrons, Northeast Monitoring
Program stations, and stations sampled during three NOAA baseline
surveys at the site from 1974 to 1976. Additional sediment
samples have been collected at the site during other MMS surveys
in the area.
Sediment samples collected by NOAA in the vicinity of the
site contained higher levels of heavy metals than sediments on
the adjacent continental shelf (Pearce et al., 1975). These
elevated levels may have been due to proximity of sampling
stations to the Hudson Canyon where concentrations of
contaminants are expected to be high. Bothner et al. (1987)
analyzed 12 trace metals in sediment samples from several
stations at 2100 meter depths southwest of the 106-Mile Site. The
levels of trace metals in surface sediments were the same as or
lower than average levels found in other locations around the
world. Hydrocarbon concentrations in sediments collected in the
vicinity of the site appear comparable to those found in
sediments from uncontaminated continental shelf areas. In
addition, hydrocarbon levels in sediments at the site are lower
than those found at other dumpsites in shallower waters (Greig
and Wenzloff, 1977).
If the monitoring program determines that significant
quantities of sludge are settling out. of the water column to the
seafloor, it may become necessary to determine if changes in
benthic community structure associated with dumping operations
are occurring. Historical stations sampled for benthic infauna
on the continental shelf and slope in the vicinity of the site
are plotted in Figure 3-7. These stations include those sampled
for EPA during an MMS cruise to the Mid-Atlantic Slope and Rise,
those sampled as part of the MMS Studies of Biological Processes
of the North and Mid-Atlantic Slope and Rise, stations that were
part of the Northeast Monitoring Program, and stations sampled
during NOAA baseline surveys at the site from 1974 to 1976.
3-18
-------
70s . . 68°
MAINE ' - , : :.
NEW : ~
HAMPSHIRE.;
LANU .- .. f'y/x
. . .-J&KW: ' ' &
NOAA Baseline Report on Dumpsite 106
1974 - 1976
DOI/MMS Mid Atlantic Slope and Rise
1984 - 1986 38*
!3?i,'-:-*W. 0« &"£==
^S-.-.-SfiiJ -^11
A DOI/MMS North Atlantic Slope'and Rise
(partial) 1984 - 1987
NOAA Northeast Monitoring Program
1974 -.1976
D EPA 106 Mile Baseline Study
1984-1986 '
FIGURE 3-7. SEVERAL STUDIES HAVE INCLUDED AN ANALYSIS OF BENTHIC
INFAUNA IN THE VICINITY OF THE 106-MILE SITE.
3-19
-------
-------
Benthic "invertebrate samples collected and analyzed by Pearce et
al. (1975, 1977) indicated no significant differences in numbers
of individuals, numbers and types of species present, or
diversity between stations at similar depths inside and outside
the site. Results of a study sponsored by MMS in the area of,
but not within, the 106-Mile Site recorded densities of 3567 to
5361 individuals per square meter at depths of 2000 to 2500 m
(Maciolek et al., 1985).
The annual cycle of phytoplankton biomass in the area of the
106-Mile Site tends to be bimodal, with peaks occurring in March
and November/December (NOAA, 1983). The spring bloom is
dominated by netplankton (size greater than 20 micrometers) at
depths of 60 to 2000 meters. The fall bloom tends to be
dominated equally by netplankton and nannoplankton (size less
than 20 micrometers). Standing stocks of zooplankton in the site
region are as high as at inshore areas during cooler months of
the year (NOAA, 1983). However, peaks are reached earlier in the.
year at offshore regions than at inshore regions. Larval fishes
collected at and surrounding the 106-Mile Site by the Marine
Resources Monitoring, Assessment, and Prediction program (MARMAP)
include 209 taxa representing 73 families (NOAA, 1983). Most of
these are slope water and oceanic species, along with some shelf
species that are transported offshore via the Gulf Steam from the
Mid-Atlantic Bight and south of Cape Hatteras.
Midwater finfishes found within the 106-Mile Site are mainly
slope-water species and species transported to the area by Gulf.
Stream eddies. Many of these fishes, such as myctophi-ds
(lanternfish), migrate vertically in the area, from depths of
several hundred meters in the daytime to 0 to 200 meters at night
(NOAA, 1977). Two species of squid, long-finned (Loligo pealei)
and short-finned (Illex illecebrosus), are found in the vicinity
of the site. Thirty-one species of open-ocean predators have
3-20
-------
been identified moving through the"site, including sharks,
swordfish, and tuna; however, these predators do not appear to be
long-term residents in the site. Cohen and Pawsoh (1977)
observed 55 species of bottom fishes near the site. Most of
these were rarely encountered and included the eel
Synaphobranchus kaupi, the morid Antimora rostrata, the rattails
Nematonurus armatus and Lionurus carapinus, the halosaur
Halosauropsis macrochir, and the lizard fish Bathysaurus ferox.
Tilefish (Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps) are fished commercially
in continental shelf areas inshore of the site.
The potential effect of dumping operations on the
distributions of endangered species at the 106-Mile Site is of
public concern. Figure 3-8 presents sightings of endangered
species that were made during EPA baseline surveys to the
106-Mile Site and the North Atlantic Incineration Site, and
during an MMS survey conducted during the Study of Biological
Processes of the Mid-Atlantic Slope and Rise. These data have
been collected using standardized techniques, ensuring
comparability within the database (Payne et al., 1984).
Sediment and water-column samples collected during five
surveys at or in the vicinity of the 106-Mile Site are of
particular interest to EPA for their relevance as baseline
information. Four surveys were conducted by EPA in July/August
1984, August 1985, February 1986, and August/September 1986. Two
surveys were conducted in August 1985 and November 1985 during
the MMS-sponsored study of biological processes on the U.S.
Mid-Atlantic slope and rise. , .Thirty-five samples from these
surveys have been identified by EPA for analysis. These samples
were chosen based on proximity of the station to the site,
quality of the sample, methods of collection, and comparability
to other samples collected at the 106-Mile Site. Results of
these analyses, will be entered into an EPA-compatible database
for use as baseline information.
3-21
-------
NEW : ;
HAMPSHIRE.^
*
SSmm-: ''&&&}
; BLANU.;.'<.&... Ji»s»^ '
Sightings on EPA November
1985 NAI5 Survey
A Sightings on OOI/MMS November
1985 MidAtlantic Survey
Sightings on EPA Augi -\l.
September 1985 Survey
FIGURE 3-8. OBSERVATIONS OF ENDANGERED SPECIES HAVE BEEN HADE IN THE
VICINITY OF THE 106-MILE SITE.
3-22
-------
3.2 WASTE CHARACTERISTICS AND DISPOSAL OPERATIONS
The following sections discuss the history of the 106-Mile
Site, the planned use of the site under the ocean dumping
program, and'the characteristics of the sludges to be disposed.
3.2.1 History of Waste Disposal at the 106-Mile Site
The area known as the 106-Mile Site was first proposed as a
site for ocean dumping in 1965 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service as an alternate to inland disposal of industrial wastes
(Figure 3-9). In 1973, EPA issued an interim designation of the
106-Mile Site for use primarily for the disposal of industrial
wastes (38 FR 12875). At that time, the site was approximately
500 square nautical miles and was bounded by 38°40'00" to
39°OOfOO" north latitude and 72°00'00" to 72°30'00" west
longitude (Figure 3-9). On December 20, 1982, EPA published its
intention to designate the site as an approved ocean dumpsite for
the disposal of aqueous industrial wastes and municipal sewage
sludges (47 FR 56663).
* Concern that mixed dumping of industrial wastes and sewage
sludges within the large/ interim-designated 106-Mile Site would
complicate monitoring efforts led to a decision by EPA to
designate two smaller sites for these separate purposes. On May
4, 1984, EPA designated a site within the interim-designated
106-Mile Site as the Deepwater Municipal Sludge Site (49 FR
19005). The processes leading to final designation of this site
within the interim 106-Mile Site have been affected by actions
taken to end dumping at the 12-Mile Site within the New York
Bight Apex. The 12-Mile Site, located approximately 12 miles
southeast of New York Harbor, has been used for disposal of
municipal sewage sludge since 1924. This site had been given an
interim designation by EPA in 1973 (38 FR 12875) and was approved
3-23
-------
76"
74°
72°
7d°
68°
MAINE
Deepwoter,
Industrial
Waste Site
Interim 106-Mile Site
.106Mile Dtepwater
Industrial _^Q^L_ Municipal Sludge Site
T
! ^TNAIS
t i
i 1
50 IOC ISO
KILOMETERS
200
74°
72°
70°
66e
FIGURE 3-9. THE 106-MILE SITE WAS DESIGNATED WITHIN A LARGER,
HISTORICAL SITE.
3-24
-------
as a site for disposal of sewage sludge on May 18, 1979 (45 FR
29052). This interim designation expired on December 31, 1981.
Since 1981, court actions taken on behalf of nine municipal
sewage authorities, including the City of New York, barred EPA
from prohibiting disposal of municipal sewage sludges at the
12-Mile Site (City of New York v. EPA 543 F. Supp. 1084).
EPA announced its intention to deny petitions to redesignate
the 12-Mile Site concurrent with designation of the 106-Mile
Deepwater Municipal Sludge Site (49 FR 19005). The final
decision to deny these petitions was published on April 11, 1985
(50 FR 14336). By denying petitions to redesignate the 12-Mile
Site and establishing the Deepwater Municipal Sludge Site, EPA
effectively halted all sludge disposal at the 12-Mile Site
allowed by the earlier court order. Municipalities using the
12-Mile Site at the time of EPA's final decision are allowed to
shift dumping operations to the 106-Mile Site until EPA rules on
the municipalities' permit applications. Amendments to Section
508 of the Clean Water Act in 1987 have limited use of the
106-Mile Site to these municipalities.
3.2.2 Use of the 106-Mile Site
As has been discussed, site designation does not constitute
approval by EPA for dumping to begin. Permits must be issued on
a case-by-case basis to municipalities that wish to use the site.
However, given the circumstances that have accompanied final
designation of the 106-Mile Site, EPA Region II and the nine
permit applicants that propose to use the site have negotiated a
schedule for phase-out of operations at the 12-Mile Site and
phase-in at the 106-Mile Site (Figure 3-10). The phase-cut/
phase-in schedule began on March 17, 1986, and is to be completed
by December 15, 1987. The following nine municipal authorities
currently use the site under this negotiated schedule:
3-25
-------
85 t^
0 2? ^
ca ^» /
° in/
I S
fo "
§
| I 1 I I
< < £ <5 o
« » < * 2 g
2 2 8 S n- "5 "5
i
ii
I -
** 2?
/
tD
#
o
o
CO
cs
QJ
CO
O
CO
00
oo
u_
o
£, <° I
z z L-
7 -X
"
r-
o
o
T-
o
r~
o
CO
~r
o
T~
O
CD
~T~
O
in
r-
o
T"
O
-J
O
T"
o
i
CO
LU
a'HS 31IW-90L 3H1.1V dO 03SOdSIQ
39QniS IVdlOINHW dO lN30M3d
3-26
-------
'Westchesteif County Department of
Environmental Facilities
Bergen County Utilities Authority
Joint Meeting of Essex and Union County
Linden Roselle Sewerage Authority
Rahway Valley Sewerage Authority
Middlesex County Utilities Authority
Passaic Valley Sewerage Authority
Nassau County Department of Public Works
New York City Department of Environmental
Protection
The schedule for shifting dumping operations from the
12-Mile Site to 'the 106-Mile Site is proceeding concurrent
with the permit process established under the ocean dumping
regulations. EPA Region II is receiving permit applications from
the nine municipal authorities that propose to use the site.
Schedules negotiated with the proposed permittees take into
consideration time required by the permittees to introduce the
increased costs of using the 106-Mile Site into their budgets,
the availability of transportation methods, and the time to
renegotiate or competitively bid waste hauling contracts (Santqro
and Suszkowski, 1986).
3.2.3 Characteristics of the Sludges
The MPRSA defines sewage sludge as "any solid, semisolid, or
liquid waste generated by a municipal wastewater treatment plant
the ocean dumping of which may unreasonably degrade or endanger
human health, welfare, or amenities, or the marine environment,
ecological systems, and economic potentialities" (33 USC
S1412[a]). Characteristics of the sewage sludges to be dumped at
the 106-Mile Site are likely to be somewhat variable, because the
sludges will come from several treatment facilities. Specific
3-27
-------
information on individual sludges will be available through
information supplied to EPA in the permit applications. Waste
characterization data supplied in a special permit application
for the disposal of sewage sludge from 12 New York City water
pollution control plants at the 12-Mile Site (Ecological
Analysts, Inc. and SEAMOcean, 1983) provide a basic understanding
of the general sludge characteristics that can be expected at the
106-Mile Site.
Municipal sludges have four components of environmental
concern: a surface film generally transported by prevailing
winds; an aqueous phase (sludge is approximately 95 percent
water); a suspended-particulate phase that entrains above the
thermocline; and a solid phase that can eventually be deposited
on the ocean floor (49 FR 19005). Solid-phase definition tests
performed on the sewage sludges from the 12 New York City
facilities indicated that there were no significant quantities of
settleable solids associated with these sludges. All New York
City sewage sludges had specific gravities less than that of
seawater.
Fecal indicators (total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and
fecal streptococci) were found in all sludges, ranging in mean
density from 6.9 x 104 to 2.1 x 107, <3.0 x 104 to 3.2 x 106, and
4.5 x 10 to 4.1 A 10/100 ml, respectively. Mean densities of
Clostridium perfringens ranged from 3.4 xlO6 to 2.8 x 107/100
ml. Levels of members of the genus Salmonella were low «0.6 to
10/100 ml). Mean densities of enteric viruses, were <1.3 to <5.0
plaque forming units/100 ml.
Chemical composition of the New York City sewage sludges was
determined for both total sludge and a laboratory-prepared liquid
phase. Aldrin, dieldrin, chlordane, heptachlor epoxide, and DDT
and its degradation products were the,only pesticides detected.
PCBs were found in all sludges analyzed, ranging in total
concentration from 11 //g/liter to 250 //g/liter. Of the volatile
3-28
-------
organic priority pollutants, chlorobenzene, ethyl benzene,
raethylene chloride, toluene, and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene were
detected. Xylenes -were found in sludges from six of the water
pollution control facilities. Base-neutral organic compounds were
found in all sludges analyzed, with the two most frequently
encountered groups being the phthalate esters and the polynuclear
aromatic hydrocarbons. PH values for the sludges varied from 6.5
to 7.7. Biological oxygen demand calculated for the total
sludges ranged from 650 to 15,150 mg/1.
3-29
-------
4. FRAMEWORK OF THE MONITORING PROGRAM
The ocean dumping regulations indicate that monitoring plans
should be designed to address the two basic objectives of the
monitoring plan as previously presented in Section 2.3. These
objectives are to assess permit compliance and assess whether
there are adverse impacts on the marine environment (i.e., impact
assessment). In addition, the regulations outline several basic
types of impacts of concern.
The design of the compliance assessment segment of the
monitoring program is based on evaluation of whether permit
conditions are met. The permits specify the allowable
characteristics of the sewage sludges and the conditions of the
disposal operations. Thus, this segment of the monitoring
program must be designed to obtain information on these two broad
issues.
The design of the impact assessment segment of the
monitoring program considers the characteristics of the sludges
in the context of the characteristics of the 106-Mile Site. An
evaluation of sludge and site characteristics leads to
predictions of the behavior, movement, fate and, ultimately, of
the potential impacts of the sewage sludge. The impact
assessment segment of the monitoring program can be formulated
based on the considerable existing knowledge of the waste and
site characteristics, discussed in Chapter 2, and considering the
types of impacts that are of concern (40 CFR 228.10).
The first step in the design of the 106-Mile Site monitoring
program is to translate the requirements of compliance and impact
assessment segments into a series of predicted potential impacts.
These predictions are restated as a series of questions or
hypotheses. The null hypotheses must be stated so that they can
be answered or tested by evaluating existing information in
4-1
-------
concert with information to be. acquired as part of the monitoring
program. Implementation of the monitoring program consists of
specific activities (e.g., evaluation of data supplied by
permittees -on sludge characteristics, acquisition of field and
laboratory data) from which data will be generated to test the
hypotheses. The results of the testing of these null hypotheses
(i.e., determining whether null hypotheses are falsified) are
then used to make specific site management decisions. These
include decisions regarding site designation, permitting, and the
conduct of the monitoring program itself.
4.1 POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF OCEAN DUMPING OF
SEWAGE SLUDGE AT THE 106-MILE SITE
The design of the 106-Mile Site monitoring program relies on
two regulatory elementsthe ocean dumping permit stipulations
and the predicted potential impacts of sewage sludge dumped at
the site. The design of the compliance assessment segment of the
monitoring program is relatively straightforward and depends
directly on the permit stipulations regarding the allowable waste
characteristics and on the specifics of the disposal operations.
The design of the impact assessment segment of the monitoring
plan is more complex, but begins with the basic questions:
e How do the municipal sludges behave after disposal,
and where do sludges go after disposal?
e What potentia'l impacts can be predicted based on the
behavior and the fate of the sludges?
The characteristics of the various sewage sludges and the
characteristics of the 106-Mile Site are the bases for making
predictions on potential impacts. To the extent that these
characteristics are known from existing baseline data, such
predictions can be postulated. As additional data are acquired
4-2
-------
on sludg.e and site .characteristics during the conduct of the
monitoring program, these predictions can be revised to better
focus the implementation of the monitoring plan.
The ocean dumping regulations itemize several categories of
potential environmental impacts on which the impact assessment
segment of the monitoring program should focus. Restated
specifically to address sludge disposal at the 106-Mile Site, the
impact categories are as follows:
Impingement of sludge onto shorelines.
Movement of sludge into marine sanctuaries,
shellfishery or fishery areas.
Effects of sludge on commercial fisheries.
Accumulation of sludge constituents in biota.
Progressive changes in water quality related to
sludge disposal.
r
Progressive changes in sediment composition related
sludge disposal.
Impacts on pollution-sensitive species or life-cycle
stages as a result of sludge disposal.
- Impacts on endangered .species as a result of sludge
disposal.
Progre.sive changes in pelagic, demersal, or benthic
biological communities as a result of sludge
disposal.
The sludge and site characteristics, summarized in Chapter 3
of this document, serve as the bases for formulating specific
predictions in the above categories. These predictions then
serve as the conceptual foundation for formulating testable null
hypotheses.
4-3
-------
4.1.1 Impingement of Sludge Onto Shorelines
I;
Sewage sludges form plumes during disposal operations.
These plumes are largely aqueous. The buoyant plumes are then
transported for a considerable distance.,, becoming diluted as they
mix with seawater. Although circulation at the 106-Mile Site is
dispersive in nature and the mean net surface flow is to the
southwest, surface and subsurface currents are highly variable
owing to intrusions of the Gulf Stream that may move through the
site. These intrusions take the form of eddies, or warm-core
rings. The shoreward component of the surface and subsurface
flow is poorly known; the real possibility does exist that under
the circumstances of westward flow of surface waters, sludge
constituents will be transported to the continental shelf.
However, movement of detectable quantities of sewage sludge to a
shoreline to the west or north of the site is highly unlikely.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-l): Sewage sludge dumped
at the 106-Mile Site will probably not impact any
shoreline in detectable quantities.
4.1.2
Movement of Sludge Into Marine Sanctuaries,
Shellfishery, or Fishery Areas
Because, the anticipated movement and behavior of the sewage
sludge plumes is such that the sludge will be advected from the
site and will be diluted by mixing with seawater and given the
dispersive nature of the site, it is not scientifically
reasonable to predict any shoreline impact nor any impact of any
marine sanctuary. This prediction also holds true for
shellfisheries located along the shoreline. Although there are
no concentrated fishery activities at the 106-Mile Site, sludge
may move westward to the shelf edge where fishing for tilefish
and other species does occur.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-2); Marine sanctuaries
and shellfisheries will probably not be impacted by
shoreward movements of sewage sludge.
4-4
-------
Predicted Potential Impact (P-3); Sewage sludge may be
transported to the continental slope and shelf where
fishery activities exist.
4.1.3 Effects of Sludge Disposal on Commercial Fisheries
Effects on commercial fisheries that must be considered,
include effects resulting in decreased use of the region in the
vicinity of the site for commercial fishing, effects that would
result in direct or indirect bioaccumulation of sludge
contaminants, and effects that would otherwise decrease available
fish stocks through damage to fish eggs or larvae.
Potential effects in any of the above categories would be
mitigated by the dispersive characteristics of the site, the
transience of fish that inhabit the area, and the patchiness of
floating fish eggs or planktonic larvae. Industrial waste
disposal just to the west of the sludge dumpsite has not been
shown to have any important effects on the offshore fisheries.
Although eggs and larvae that come in contact with the sludge
plumes in the sewage disposal site -may be damaged or killed, the
distribution of these planktonic life stages is quite patchy.
The quantitative importance of this potential effect is predicted
to be minimal because the plume is small in relation to the ocean
available to eggs and larvae; thus the predicted impact is nil on
any populations of species. Although adult fish or important
invertebrates (e.g., squid) are found seasonally at the site,
they too are transients, making any impact on a scale that would
disrupt a fishery highly unlikely.
Furthermore, although sewage sludge does contain pathogenic
bacteria and viruses, the survival of many of these organisms is
very brief in seawater. Even for microbes that persist, it is
unlikely that the low intermittent levels, coupled with the
transience of fish at the site, would result in significant
incidence of disease in the fish.
4-5
-------
e Predicted Po'tential Impact (P-^) : The impact of
sludge dumping on commercial fisheries, expressed as
direct decrease in fish stocks or decrease in eggs or
larvae, will probably not be detected, and the use of
any area for fishing will not be reduced.
The issue of bioaccumulation of sludge constituents and its
potential effects on fisheries and the human health is discussed
in the next section.
4.1.4 Accumulation of Sludge Constituents in Biota
Accumulation of sludge constituents in marine biota can
occur in several ways. Sludge-associated chemicals, pathogens,
or viruses can be taken up or adsorbed to the bodies of plankton.
Animals eating plankton can accumulate these contaminants. If
sludge within or transported from the site is ingested or if prey
contaminated with sludge is ingested, some bioaccumulation of
sewage sludge constituents can occur. In addition, direct
bioaccumulation of contaminants or pathogens from seawater can
occur.
The FDA has developed "action limits" for several sludge
constituents. An "action limit" is a recommended limit for
restricting consumption of a foodstuff because of the potential
for bioaccumulation. The acquired level for any contaminant is
unlikely to be harmful, hence no danger to public health will
occur. Any direct effect on the biota will probably also be nil
due to the very low levels, if any, acquired. Furthermore,
because many of the chemicals of concern in sewage sludge are
widespread contaminants in urban coastal waters, and because the
migratory patterns of fishes may take them to coastal locations
as well as the 106-Mile Site, it probably will be very difficult
to separate bioaccumulation from sludge at the site from all
4-6
-------
other possible sources in the.region. Also, it will be difficult
to interpret data on the bioaccumulation of certain contaminants
such as metals, which are present in the area as a result of the
disposal of industrial wastes.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-5); Bioaccumulation of
low levels of contaminants- associated with sewage
sludge from the 106-Mile Site will occur, from time to
time, at the site or directly adjacent to the site by
migrating fishes or invertebrates visiting the site,
but may be difficult to distinguish from bioaccu-
mulation from other potential sources.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-6); Bioaccumulation of
very low levels of sludge contaminants by resident
continental shelf/slope fishes may occur depending on
direction and extent of transport of sludge to these
areas, but may be difficult to distinguish from
bioaccumulation from other potential sources.
4.1.5 Progressive Changes in Water Quality
The disposal of sewage sludge will have a profound negative
effect on water quality within the site during disposal
operations. Impact in this category is defined as concentrations
that exceed either the laboratory-determined limiting permissible
concentration (LPCs)'or any water quality criteria (WQC) at the
site boundaries during disposal. The -ocean dumping permits will
be written taking into account the interactions of sludge
toxicity and mixing or dilution rates so that LPCs are not.
exceeded outside the site during disposal or within the site or
elsewhere four hours after disposal. Nonetheless, it is possible
that, due to violation or insufficient knowledge of any of these
factors, the water quality at the site or outside the site can be
affected. Based on observations (e.g., the August 1986 and
September 1987 EPA surveys at the site) of recent sludge disposal
operations, it is possible that LPCs and WQC could be exceeded
outside the immediate disposal site boundaries.
4-7
-------
Water quality .impacts would also be noted by any progressive
(i.e., cumulative) change in the concentration of sludge
constituents within the site or in the region adjacent to the
site. In the farfield, water quality effects are much less
likely. However, the possibility of recirculating flow of water
through the site has been postulated. It is possible that sewage
sludge transported initially to the southwest could, via
counterclockwise flow, return to the proximity of the site,
increment the concentration of sludge constituents in the water
column, and hence have a long-term cumulative effect within the
site or in the region near the site. This potential phenomenon
can not be dismissed, though its magnitude will probably be
small. Such water quality effects may be noticed when data are
compared to levels of these constituents at baseline or reference
stations. Low, but detectable, bioaccumulation effects could
result from exposure of fish or invertebrates to seawater with
elevated levels of sludge constituents.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-7); Sewage sludge
movement and transport of sludge to and beyond the site
boundaries may result in significant impact on the
water quality beyond the disposal site.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-8); Sludge constituents
may be found in significant quantities within the site
at all times and may persist beyond four hours after
disposal. Chronic effects on marine biota are
possible.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-9); Though certain
sludge constituents may be detectable well outside the
site, these levels are not expected to have significant
effect on marine biota.
4.1.6 Progressive Changes in Sediment Composition
The buoyancy of the plume will probably prevent rapid
settling of sludge within the site, although the sludge particles
will settle through the water column over time. The settling
behavior is likely to be quite variable owing to the
heterogeneous composition of sludges, the variable flocculation
4-8
-------
of the sludge particles, and the seasonal variability in water
column characteristics. Where and to what extent the sludge will
reach the sea floor is highly uncertain at this time. A
knowledge of the settling rate of the sludge particles, the
seasonally dependent water column hydrography and structure, and
the surface and subsurface current speed and direction is
necessary to compute a settling trajectory and predict a settling
location.
in all probability, sludge particles will eventually settle
through the water column and deposit in very low quantities on
the sea floor. The effect on sediment composition is likely to
be nil to minimal given the anticipated low settling rate,
expected sludge particle dilution, and the great settling depth.
Even if t.he sludge particles were transported in shore to the
continental shelf, such sediment impacts would probably still be
minimal.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-10); Sludge particles
may settle outside the disposal site boundaries.
However, this settling will occur over a very large,
and as yet undefined area. The resultant changes in
sediment composition, the destruction of sediment
habitat, and/or the accumulation of sludge constituents
-in surficial sediment will probably be nil to minimal.
4.1.7
Impacts on Pollution-Sensitive Species
or Life-Cycle Stages
As previously stated, the 106-Mile Site is a highly
dispersive environment. Pollution-sensitive species or sensitive
life-cycle stages (i.e., eggs and larvae) will undoubtedly be
found from time to time at the site during migratory events or as
a result of oceanic currents. Where sludge may come in contact
with individuals, damage may occur. However, the disposal of
sludge and its presence in the region is not expected to cause
long-term impacts on any population or community.
4-9
-------
One area of concern is the sea-surface microlayer. This
unique biological and chemical environment is also the site where
eggs of some species of marine biota reside. Sewage sludge
contains nbnpolar hydrophobic organic compounds and
surface-active constituents that will---tend to migrate to and
accumulate in the microlayer. The microlayer is known for its
elevated concentrations of pollutants. Should the microlayer of
the region of the 106-Mile Site become contaminated with organic
and metal pollutants, the sensitive life-cycle stages of
organisms residing there may be affected.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-ll): The disposal of
sewage sludge probably will not cause long-term impacts
on pollution-sensitive species or life-cycle stages in
the water column or in the sediments of the 106-Mile
Site region. Effects may be detectable, but local and
short-lived.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-12); The sea-surface
microlayer in the disposal site and in an undefined
area adjacent to the site and the sensitive life stages
of marine biota within may be affected by the
surface-active components and nonpolar pollutant
compounds present in sludge.
4.1.8 Impacts on Endangered Species
Certain species of marine mammals and reptiles may
occasionally be present in the area of the 106-Mile Site,
although the area is not known to have significant numbers of any
endangered species. In all probability, no mammal, reptile, or
any endangered species will be affected by disposal operations or
by the sludge itself.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-13); Endangered species
of mammals or reptiles will probably not be impacted by
sewage sludge disposal at the 106-Mile Site.
4-10
-------
4.1.9 Progressive Changes in Biological Communities
For plankton, a relatively long period of potential contact
between biota and sludge could conceivably affect the community.
However, because the water qual-ity impacts are predicted to be
limited in area, any potential effect on the patchy oceanic
plankton population is expected to be equally limited. Although
some mortality of plankton in the site area is possible, it is
also possible that a localized nutrient enrichment could have a
stimulatory effect on plankton biomass and community structure.
Nutrients from sludge will be diluted rapidly and will never
result in eutrophication at the high degree of dispersion
expected. However, some short-lived and very limited change in
species composition and biomass is conceivable.
As for demersal and benthic communities, the predicted
insignificant transport of sludge particles to the benthos
precludes any significant effect and any change in benthic or
demersal community structure.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-14); Due to nutrient
enrichment in the upper water column, there may be a
localized increase in primary productivity related to
individual sewage plumes.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-15); There will probably
be no long-term or large-scale impact on the plankton
community as a result of sludge disposal at the
106-Mile Site.
Predicted Potential Impact (P-16); Due to the expected
absence of sewage sludge particles in the demersal or
benthic environment, no effects on the benthic or
demersal community structures are likely.
The analysis of potential impacts of sludge disposal at the
106-Mile Site, patterned after those impact categories of concern
in the ocean dumping regulations, has resulted in the above
predictions of potential impacts or lack of impact. These
predictions form the basis of the impact assessment segment of
the monitoring plan. The next step is to formulate questions or
4-11
-------
hypotheses that are.'testable. -When arranged into tiers, these
hypotheses form the basis of the implementation of the monitoring
plan.
4.2 MONITORING HYPOTHESES
Once the permit compliance conditions and dumpsite
management strategy for multiple dumpers are known, the predicted
potential impacts of the sewage sludge disposal can be
postulated, and the bases for the compliance assessment and
impact assessment segment of the monitoring plan can be
established. The next step is to begin to restate these issues
and predictions as testable null hypotheses. Monitoring plans
can be designed and implemented effectively if they borrow the
concept of hypothesis testing from scientific experimentation.
For. this reason, the 106-Mile Site Monitoring Plan focuses on
specific questions or null hypotheses that in turn focus the
design of data acquisition efforts and the ultimate use of these
data to examine the verification or falsification of these null
hypotheses. The null hypotheses are linked together in a
progression of transport, fate, and effects, so that each
hypothesis concerning effects is supported by information on
transport and fate. Ideally, the null hypotheses would
correspond to the permit conditions to be monitored and to the
impact categories of the ocean dumping regulations.
:, ' ' " ' ' ' l!
However, in many cases, scientists may not agree on the
exact means to test these hypotheses or the testing may yield
equivocal results due to imperfect methods The means to test
these hypotheses may still be under development and prohibitively
expensive, or the expected availability of definitive results may
not correspond to the time frame available for site managers to
make decisions regarding the use of the site. In these cases,
the null hypotheses must be given lower priority for testing.
4-12
-------
The.null hypotheses can be presented in categories as a
first step in organizing the null hypotheses into a logical
testing or implementation framework. The null hypotheses that
address the assessment of impacts (Section 4.2.2) are linked to
the predicted potential impacts, previously discussed.
4.2.1 Assessment of Permit Compliance
The hypotheses related to the assessment of permit
compliance address the allowable characteristics of the waste,
the allowable methods of disposal, and the nearfield fate of the
sewage sludge. The hypotheses are stated so that the results of
the hypothesis testing yields information on whether permit
conditions are met.
4.2.1.1 Waste Characteristics
Sewage sludges to be disposed at the 106-Mile Site will have
varying physical, chemical, and microbial characteristics, sludge
because various sewage treatment plants generate the sludges.
Sludge characteristics may also very dramatically over time.
Permit conditions are dependent on determination of the sludge
characteristics, and the design of the monitoring program itself
is linked to the anticipated behavior and fate of the sludge.
Monitoring of sludge compositions and characteristics is
generally directed towards specifications in the permits that are
based on sludge characterization information supplied by the
permittees. The following null hypothesis is central to the
waste characteristic monitoring effort:
H 1: The physical and chemical characteristics of
0 sludge are consistent with waste characteriza-
tion information supplied with the permit
applications.
4-13
-------
This overall null hypothesis can be split into individual
hypotheses corresponding to each permitted characteristic of the
sewage sludges.
4.2.1.2 Disposal Operations
Permit conditions specify the location at which sludge
disposal may occur (i.e., in the site) and also specify the
maximum discharge rates. These rates have been determined in
conjunction with the LPCs for sludge, a knowledge of the sludge
characteristics, and the expected rate of dilution of the sludge
so that the LPCs are not exceeded after mixing. The applicable
hypothesis is
HQ2:
Disposal rates and operations are consistent
with the requirements of the ocean dumping
permits.
4.2.1.3 Nearfield Compliance
Several null hypotheses concerning nearfield fate of the
sewage sludge are also related to monitoring permit compliance
because they are tied to the assumption that water quality
criteria (WQC), when they exist, will not be exceeded within the
disposal site four hours after disposal or outside the sit'" at
any time. When WQC do not-exist, the permits will require that
the concentration of the waste not exceed a factor of 0.01 times
a concentration known to be acutely toxic after initial mixing.
Water quality criteria have been determined for individual
chemicals, not for complex mixtures of these chemicals in a
matrix such as sludge. The combined conformance to LPCs and WQC
is deemed to be sufficient to protect marine life and public
health. The hypotheses applicable to nearfield compliance can be
stated as follows:
4-14
-------
Ho3-'
H 4:
o
Ho5:
Concentrations of-sludge and sludge consti-
tuents are below the permitted LPC and WQG
outside the site at all times.
Concentrations of sludge and sludge consti-
tuents are below the permitted LPC and WQC
values within the site four hours after
disposal.
Pathogen levels do not exceed ambient levels
four hours after at the disposal.
The above null hypotheses form the basis of determining
permit compliance. The activities that must be conducted to test
these null hypotheses include review of data supplied by
permittees and data obtained in the field and. laboratory (see
Chapter 5) .
4.2.2 Assessment of Potential Impacts
The ocean dumping regulations present several impact
categories that are of concern and on which the impact assessment
segment of the monitoring program must focus. The predicted
potential impacts P-l through P-16 were discussed in Section 4.1.
Null Hypotheses can be tested through data acquisition activities
and comparisons with baseline data. These impact assessment
null hypotheses address aspects of nearfield fate, short-term
effects, farfield fate, and long-term effects of sludge.
4.2.2.1 Nearfield Fate
Nearfield fate determinations with respect to impact
assessment address the behavior and movement, both horizontal and
vertical, of sludge within the disposal site and in the area
immediately adjacent to the site. Because sewage sludge has been
observed to leave the site in coherent, visually apparent plumes,
consideration of the area adjacent to the site (within
approximately 5 km) is. appropriate ( EPA 1988 ). Hypotheses
4-15
-------
concerning nearfield fate are-formulated to address questions
regarding the vertical movement of the sludge and the horizontal
mixing and dilution. The data are also used to determine whether
certain fairfield studies are needed, if so, how to design them,
and to provide data to verify or refine predictive models on
which permit conditions and farfield transport predictions are
based.
The relevant null hypotheses relate to impact predictions
P-7, P-8, and P-10 presented in Section 4.1.
H 6: Sludge particles do not settle in significant
quantities to the seasonal pycnocline (50 m) in
the summer or to the 50 m depth at any time,
within the site boundaries or in the area
adjacent to the site.
Ho7:
HQ8:
HQ9:
The concentration of sludge constituents within
the site does not exceed the LPC or WQC four
hours after disposal and is not detectable in
the site one day after disposal.
The concentration of sludge constituents at the
site boundary or in the area adjacent to the
site does not exceed the LPC or WQC at any time
and is not detectable one day after disposal.
The disposal of sludge does not cause a
significant depletion in the dissolved oxygen
content of the water column "nor" "a significant
change in the pH of the seawater in the area.
Hypotheses HQ7 and HQ8 overlap with those in the compliance
segment on nearfield fate. However, H 7 and H 8 go beyond
compliance issues and address important aspects of water quality
impacts in relation to ambient, baseline levels. These hypoth-
eses also address the longer term residual concentration of
sludge constituents in and adjacent to the site and possible
progressive changes in offshore water quality.
4-16
-------
4.2.2.2 Short-Term Effects .
Null hypotheses formulated in this category of the impact
assessment segment begin to address the validity of the
assumption that permit compliance protecJLs marine life and public
health. The null hypotheses are linked to impact predictions
P-4, P-5, P-ll, P-12, and P-14 in Section 4.1 as discussed above,
and any short-term effects (four hours to one day after disposal)
are likely to be confined to the upper water column. Short-term
effects can also occur as a result of water quality impacts
previously covered under Nearfield Fate. Short-term effects are
conceivable in the surface microlayer due to the possible
accumulation of pollutants in and the residence of fish eggs at
the air-sea interface (P-12). For purposes of this discussion,
the "short-term" period is assumed to represent the time from
four hours to one day after disposal.
H 10: No significant biological effects in the water
column are measurable within the site within one
day after disposal.
This null hypothesis addresses the possible effects of sludge
constituents or altered water quality on phyto- and zooplankton
and on sensitive life stages such as eggs and larvae. In
practice, separate hypotheses will be formulated.
H 11: No increase in primary productivity or any
changes in planktonic biomass or species
composition will occur.
H 12: No evidence of short-term bioaccumulation of
sludge constituents .by commercially important
species found at or adjacent to the site or in
important prey species found at or adjacent to
the site will be found within one day after
disposal.
H 13: Sludge constituents do not accumulate in the
surface microlayer in the vicinity of the site.
4-17
-------
'In practice, to determine whether the testing of null
hypothesis H 12 is a scientifically valid undertaking,, it must be
determined whether species of concern a.re present at the site.
The feasibility of testing this null hypothesis deserves
additional attention.
4.2.2.3 Farfield Fate
Null hypotheses concerning farfield fate address impact
issues that pertain to the farfield transport of sludge; to
potential impact to shorelines (P-l) and marine sanctuaries and
shellfisheries (P-2), and the continental shelf/slope (P-3); to
possible sites of continental slope/shelf bioaccumulation (P-6);
and to possible transport to the sediments well outside the site
(P-10). Additionally, impacts related to the progressive
farfield increase in the levels of sludge constituents due to
1 ' ' . ' ' ,
possible water mass entrainment (P-9) will be addressed. The
hypotheses in this category are, however, more concerned with the
question "Where does the sludge go?" than with the question "What
are its potential effects?"
H014: Sludge constituents do not settle beneath the
pycnocline outside the disposal site.
H ,15: Ocean currents do not transport, sludge to any
adjacent shoreline, beach, marine sanctuary,
fishery, or shellfishery.
H016: Sludge recirculation through the site is not
significant.
Sludge particles do not settle to the sea floor
in the vicinity of -the site or in the region
predicted as a possible settling region based on
laboratory settling measurements and current
trajectory analysis.
These null hypotheses are designed to answer questions about the
farfield transport of sludge and to help determine if long-term
effects measurements should be initiated, and if so, where they
should specifically be directed.
4-18
H017:
-------
4.2.2.4 Long-Term Effects
Long-term effects of the disposal of sludge can occur within
the site (i.e., nearfield) or outside the site (i.e., farfield).
Long-term effects in the site can occur if there is a progressive
decrease in water quality or formation of a disease center.
Long-term effects on the benthos in or outside the site are not
predicted to occur (P-10), (P-16). Potential effects also
concern bioaccumulation of sludge constituents by commercially
important shelf/slope animals (P-6). Other categories of
long-term effects not predicted to be potentially important are
effects on endangered species that are transient in the region
(P-13) and effects on commercial fisheries (P-4). The relevant
hypotheses are
H 18: Sludge constituents have no significant long-term
effect on the distribution of endangered species
H019
H020:
H021
H 22
o
in the vicinity of the site.
Sludge constituents do not accumulate in the
tissues of commercially important species
resident in shelf/slope areas adjacent to the
site.
Benthic community structure does not change
significantly due to sludge disposal.
Slue 76 disposal has no effect on the sensitive
eggs and larval stages of indigenous animals.
Sludge disposal has no measurable long-term
impact on offshore plankton communities.
H 23: Pathogen levels will not increase in the water
column or in the biota.
The above null hypotheses encompass a wide range and an expensive
array of investigations. The efficient and scientifically
defensible rationale for implementing activities that address
these null hypotheses must be well thought out. Not only must
4-19
-------
the rationale for the implementation of these activities be
defensible, but the methods to generate timely, defensible data
be available. The strategy for implementing parts of the
monitoring program and testing these null hypotheses is presented
in the next chapter.
4-20
-------
5. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MONITORING PROGRAM
Implementation of the 106-Mile Site monitoring program will
follow a "tiered" approach, whereby the null hypotheses or
questions are organized into a series of monitoring tiers. This
approach is the most effective approach to monitoring (Zeller and
Wastler, 1986). The conceptual basis of the approach is that
data collected in each of a hierarchy of tiers are required as
the foundation for the design and extent of monitoring activities
to be implemented in the next tier. Such an approach also
ensures that only information needed for making decisions will be
collected. Within the hierarchy of tiers, explicit objectives
and endpoints guide conduct of work.
Although the hierarchy of tiers provides the organization
for the monitoring program, it is important to note that the
explicit objectives, null hypotheses, and regulatory endpoints
are the real substance of the program (Zeller and Wastler, 1986).
Therefore, it is important that each tier be thought of as part
of the overall monitoring effort. Data generated in the tiers
will be used not only in making decisions about the next steps to
take in monitoring, but also in deciding whether to redesignate
or dedesignate the site and whether to continue, alter, or revoke
permits.
This chapter describes the .monitoring tiers that will be
used to guide the implementation of the 106-Mile Site monitoring
program. It also describes activities that may be included in
each of these tiers. These activities have been selected to
provide information to' test the hypotheses discussed in
Chapter 4. The chapter also presents information about the
quality assurance and data management activities that are part of
the 106-Mile Site monitoring program. These activities are
included to ensure that data collected under the program will be
scientifically defensible and readily available for use.
5-1
-------
5.1 MONITORING TIERS
For the 106-Mile Site monitoring program, the six categories
of hypotheses discussed in Chapter 4 have been grouped into a
hierarchy of four tiers as follows:
Tier 1Sludge Characteristics and Disposal Operations
Tier 2Nearfield Fate and Short-Term Effects
Tier 3Farfield Fate
Tier 4Long-Term Effects
These tiers include hypotheses associated with both permit
compliance and assessment of potential impacts (Figure 5-1).
Permit compliance issues are addressed both in Tier 1, "Sludge
Characteristics and Disposal Operations," and in Tier 2,
"Nearfield Fate and Short-Term Effects." The hypotheses related
to impact assessment are organized around two categories of
questions: 1) Where does the sludge go after disposal" and 2)
Does the sludge disposal at the 106-Mile Site adversely and
unacceptably impact resources or the environment? These
questions are assessed in Tiers 2 through 4, which are concerned
with assessing impacts by determining fate and effects of sludge.
disposal at the site.
5.1.1 Tier 1; Monitoring Sludge Characteristics
and Disposal Operations
Ongoing monitoring of sludge characteristics and disposal
operations is important, because characteristics of the sludges
disposed of at the site may vary over time. The assumptions made
both in writing the permit for sludge disposal and in predicting
potential impacts of sludge disposal may not be valid throughout
5-2
-------
to
o
a:
LU
Q_
o
u
o
}£> .c
2 "
£ 5
T- Q
a- to
LU o
o>
Q.
o
"5
(A
O
Q.
(A
§ *
tt)
C .c
o
o:
LU
o
<
cr
<
o
LU
to
.2 c
c o
O) en
to
o
LU
LU
tr
LU
tr
cvi o
LU
S
a
LU
u.
o:
<
LU
c
o
c
£
'i
Ol
T3
~0n
"o
"t» jj
~ 'lA
* 01
-D -C
o ~
c
D> "u
c -^
0)
0)
(A
LU
Q
cr -J
UJ LU
I U.
cc
if
O l-
o Of
U) "*"
c en
2 c
*" ^
"o o>
o "g
D
o a,
TJ
C <"
.o a,
c £
o
~o
(J C
Ol O
c *
.r o>
__
< o
LU
cr
UJ
LU
I
o
£
o
Ol
^
o
o Q>
a>
~ .52
c -o
(0
in
cu
(A
01
O)
o
LU
O
0-
O
CJ
a:
LU
a.
O
o .2
I §
52 w
b =5. -s
ui
C
o
c
Ol
u
c
o
o
J>
.0
'«
(A
o
"C
e >«
V- ^
a>
a.
LU
to
LU
to
to
(A C
en o ^
£ 13 D. ~
~ - O) ^
(A
o
O
O
a
_o>
5
to
o
<
a.
UJ
O
a.
u.
o
LU
s
to
to
LU
to
to
(A
O)
5 .5H
t_
o a>
C J=
a ui
to £
«- 01 a
c c o -r
» ~ 'a .2
£ o «- CD
-^ e c
C O £
'5. "c o c
£.-00
~ ~ c a
o -s
a
.3
c
o
"w
o
a.
o
O
"c-
Q)
"5
0)
to
(A
a>
o
to
a>
U) ^
.2 'E
§
c
=
e
o
o o
01
Q.
to
= .£ £ o
o> c
J 'I - E
1 5 .8 |
.c o n o
t/) s *' * ^
I I I I
a>
en
c
o
I/I
a>
O)
c
o
.c
o
a>
u
c
01
VI
.n
C "o>
o o
"c o
LU CD
5 .£
O) (fl
u a>
c o>
a> c
-------
the period for which the 106-Hile Site has been designated.
Therefore, the objective of Tier 1 is to assess sludge
characteristics and disposal operations in order to verify that
the conditions specified by the permits continue to be true.
Data generated by the activities conducted under this tier may be
used in determining whether to revoke or change a permit or
whether to redesignate or designate the site. These data may
also be used in deciding of whether to curtail or change the
monitoring program.
5.1.2 Tier 2: Monitoring Nearfield Fate and Short-Term Effects
Some of the hypotheses concerning nearfield fate of the
sludge being disposed of at the 106-Mile Site are related to
monitoring permit compliancefor example, they examine the
assumption that the LPCs or WQC are not exceeded within the site
four hours after sludge dumping or outside the site at any time.
Other hypotheses included in this tier of the monitoring program
are designed to determine whether the sludge disposal affects
resources or the environment.
Thus, the overall objectives of Tier 2 of the monitoring
program are to assess the short-term behavior, transport, and
impact of the sludge within and in the immediate vicinity of the
site. Data generated in this tier may, as in Tier 1, be used in
site designation, permitting, and monitoring program decisions.
For example, if concentrations of sludge or sludge constituents
are found to be well below LPCs, a decision could be made to
allow increased dumping in future permits. Such a finding might
also be used in a determination to limit-monitoring outside the
site; i.e., to limit or curtail conduct of farfield monitoring
under Tiers 3 and 4. Finding that LPCs are greatly exceeded at
the site boundary could cause permits to be altered and could
5-4
-------
ultimately be a major factor in a decision to dedesagnate the
site. Detection of waste constituents at concentrations near ,or
greater than the LPCs could trigger a more extensive evaluation
of transport under Tier 3.
5.1.3 Tier 3: Monitoring Farfield Fate
For many monitoring plans, hypotheses related to farfield
fate and long-term effects of wastes disposed of at sea can be
grouped into a single tier. Because ocean current and water mass
movements (and hence the behavior and transport of the sludge) in
the vicinity of the 106-Mile Site are not well understood and
because the activities associated with determination of fate
differ greatly from those used to determine effects, these
hypotheses have been partitioned into separate tiers for the
106-Mile Site program.
The overall objective of this tier is to assess the
direction and areal extent of sludge constituents at the 106-Mile
Site and in the long term, their"ultimate fate. Information
generated under Tier 3 will in most instances be useful in
addressing questions concerning impact assessment. For example,
whether sludge constituents are likely to move towards shore or
into productive fisheries areas will be assessed by conduct of
Tier 3 activities. In other instances, information generated
under this tier will be used in determining whether a thorough
examination of long-term effects is warranted, and if so, where
that investigation should take place.
5.1.4 Tier 4; Monitoring Long-Term Effects
The objective of Tier 4 studies is to assess whether there
are long-term impacts of sludge disposal at the 106-Mile Site.
Depending on the results of data generated in earlier work, they
5-5
-------
may include studies of impacts on fisheries species, biological
communities that.support fisheries species, or any other marine
resources.
Information developed in the conduct of Tier 4 activities
will, as for the other tiers, be used in making decisions about
site designation, permitting, and monitoring. Findings that no
long-term impacts result from disposal of sludge at the 106-Mile
Site, for example, would provide grounds for redesignating the
site; continuing permits or modifying them to allow increased use
of the site; and, depending on the permitting decision,
.' . ' !' ' , i
decreasing the monitoring effort or maintaining it to examine
effects of the changed permits. Results indicating that
undesirable long-term effects did occur could lead to
dedesignation of the site, revocation of or changes to permits,
and a continued or intensified monitoring effort.
5.2 MONITORING ACTIVITIES
Monitoring activities will be selected to test the
hypotheses discussed in Chapter 4 and will be implemented
according to the tiered structure described above (Figure 5-2).
Specific activities and measurements will be selected by
evaluating whether they can be used to test the null hypotheses,
whether they will provide timely information that ,can be readily
interpreted, and whether they can be implemented
cost-effectively.
5.2.1 Tier 1; Sludge Characteristics and Disposal Operations
Permits are issued .based on assumptions about specific
physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the wastes
and on the discharge location and rate of discharge. The purpose
of monitoring activities associated with waste characterization
5-6
-------
*
in
u
at
*t U
t fe
1
0)
c
3
75
^^
"D
.Si "S
o
u_
-oJ2
O 0)
5S
W 1.
di -O 0)
*":= 1
c ^
y j
40 .
c
.0
o
N
a>
»- o
. i-
* ?
p 6
a>
3
i/)
sapedg
|o suoi}DAjlsqo
saipnjs
' ' "
X6o|oig
juaoijpas
PUD Xjjsiujaijo
lUdtUIDd*?
'
X5o|Oig
Xj;s(UJdL|3
iCy ... t AC DUD
uujnjon jdiDy\j\)
XijdDjSouDdon
XgdOJ6ouDa30
uoi}D]naino3Doig
X6o]O|g
X6o]O|qojoi^ PUD
J3JDM P1SUJD3N
DU|>{3DJ^
auuny
sojtsuapDJDqo
6ui|j}as
UOI)DOIJOJU|
Suipooq
aSjog
sasX|ouv
Xijauonn
it \j
PERMIT COMPLIANCE
0
9
L PC/ Water Quality Crileria
9
*
^
Permit Conditions
IMPACT ASSESSMENT *
f
«T
C o
o
"Movement ol materials int(
estuaries or marine sanctu
or onto oceahlront beache;
shorelines*
0
o
0
'Movement oi materials low
procuctive fishery or
shelllishery areas"
*
'
- .-
OP
Absence from the disposal
ol pollution sensitive biol
characteristic ol th* gener
area*
^
£
- ^» * e t»*i
"Progressive, non seasona
changes in water quality c
sediment composition at Ih
disposal site, when these
changes are attributable 1
materials disposed at the
o"£ g ° =
"Progressive, non seasona
changes in composition or
numbers ol pelagic, demer
or benlhic biota at or near
site, when these changes
be attributed to the ellecl
materials disposed at the
.
*
.
_ V
§ ;*".'""
jC in f.
'Accumulation ol materials
constituents (including wil
limitation human pathogen
marine biota at or near Ih
m
i/i
g
c
i
C
^
D
(j
0
C
D
0
* u
co',2!
II
cr 1^
0 cf
5°
* »
a.
a
UJ
o
s:
u
0.
o
a.
00
UJ
O CO
h- CO
ii UJ
Z CO
o to
C\J
I
LO
D;
3
I-H
U.
5-7
-------
and disposal operations is to .ensure that the wastes comply with
permit limits and regulations and that the discharge of material
into the marine environment complies with permit conditions.
Both sets of conditions are imposed on the permittee to ensure
that the sludge or its constituents will not, for example, exceed
LPCs or WQC after initial dilution, and hence possibly result in
toxicity to marine organisms.
Activities that may be included under Tier 1 monitoring
could include the following:
Recording of the total volume of sludge dumped at
the 106-Mile Site during the quarter.
Measurement of chemical and microbiological
constituents of the sludge dumped. Measurements
will probably include all EPA priority pollutants.
A list of parameters most likely to differ from
ambient conditions is presented in Table 5-1.
Conduct of toxicity test^ to establish the
concentration at which the sludge is toxic to marine
organisms. (These tests will be used to establish
or modify LPCs.)
Static settling experiments in the laboratory to
determine the rates at and conditions under which
the wastes settle.
Additionally, position and rate of discharge may be recorded
and the waste in the barge may be sampled frequently.
Surveillance of dumping operations may also be conducted to see
if disposal rates and operations agree with permit conditions.
5.2.2 Tier 2; Nearfield Fate and Short-Term Effects
The objective of the monitoring activities associated with
Tier 2 is to assess the behavior, transport, and impact of the
sludge within the boundaries and in the immediate vicinity of the
106-Mile Site. Permit requirements are the basic management tool
for ensuring that LPCs are not exceeded at the 106-Mile Site.
5-8
-------
TABLE 5-1. PARAMETERS THAT COULD BE MEASURED IN MUNICIPAL SLUDGES
OR IN THE RECEIVING WATER AT THE 106-MILE SITE
Total organic carbon
Suspended and settleable solids
Turbidity*
Bacteria
Polychlorinated Biphenyls
Chromium
Cadmium
Copper
Lead
Mercury
Zinc
Coprostanol
Toxicity
Aldrin
Benzidine
Benzo(a)pyrene
Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate
Chlordine
DDT/DDD/DDE
Dieldrin
Heptachlor
Toxaphine
* Would be measured only in receiving waters
5-9
-------
Compliance with these requirements is intended to ensure that
sludge will not be "transported outside the site at concentrations
that will result in predictions of farfield impact.
Judging.from available information of baseline conditions
and sludge characteristics, sludge could be transported beyond
the site boundaries at concentrations that greatly exceed ambient
levels and that may exceed LPCs and WQC. There is also a
potential for short-term biological impacts in the water column
and for sludge constituents to settle below the pycnocline within
site boundaries. Monitoring activities discussed below are
necessary to ascertain where wastes disposed at the 106-Mile Site
are transported, in what conditions they persist within site
boundaries, and if there are significant short-term biological
effects associated with sludge disposal in the vicinity of the
site. Additionally, information gained from nearfield monitoring
activities may be used to support validation of models for
determining the physical short-term behavior of sludge disposed
at sea.
Specific monitoring activities directed at nearfield fate
may include
Nearfield tracking and sampling of dissolved and
particulate phases of sludge to determine if sludge
or sludge components are transported beyond the
106-Mile Site or are transported beneath the
pycnocline within the site.
Analysis of nearfield water quality parameters,
contaminant constituents, or pathogens to determine
if LPCs, WQC, or other regulatory parameters are
exceeded within the boundaries of the 106-Mile Site
after the period of initial mixing or outside the
site at any time.
Acquisition of oceanographic information to describe
site ,conditions in terms of parameters that affect
the behavior of sludges at the site. Monitoring may
5-10
-------
include measurements of wind, sea state, and
"currents during dumping events. Salinity,
temperature, and dissolved oxygen may be used to
define water masses occupying the site.
Appropriate direct measurements of short-term impacts on marine
organisms have not yet been selected and require further
consideration. However, examples of such activities may include
the following:
Studies of short-term bioaccumulation of waste
constituents if appropriate indigenous species are
available.
Use of indicators of environmental stress such as
copepod respiration rates to assess immediate and
short-term impacts of sludge on marine animals
present in the water column.
Conduct of other acute or short-term toxicity tests
using surface water or microlayer samples taken from
the site during disposal operations.
5.2.3 Tier 3; Farfield Fate
Tier 3 monitoring activities will provide data on the
farfield transport of sludges disposed of at the site. Although
these data will not be used directly to measure impacts in the
farfield, they may be used to assess the potential for impacts
outside the site and in the long term. These results will guide
the implementation of Tier 4 activities to test long-term effects
hypotheses.
Monitoring activities in the farfield are based upon
knowledge of the largescale transport mechanisms affecting the
106-Mile Site. The activities associated with determining
farfield fate include activities similar to those used for
nearfield fate, but with increased emphasis on physical
oceanography. Specific elements of farfield monitoring
activities have not been selected. However, examples of such
activities may include the following:
5-11
-------
Release of satellite-tracked drifters within the
-106-Mile Si-te to track the movement of the water
masses into which the sludge is discharged and to
document the frequency and extent of any on-shelf
excursions from the 106-Mile Site.
Continued deployment of current meters in the
vicinity of the site to monitor surface and midwater
currents in the area.
Use of satellite imagery to document the frequency
and extent on-shelf excursions of water occupying
the site.
Determination of amount and location of sludge
particulate deposition on the ocean floor with
sediment traps located above the seafloor both
inside and outside the 106-Mile Site.
5.2.4 Tier 4: Long-Term Effects
Potential long-term effects include adverse effects on
commercial fisheries; accumulation of sludge constituents in
marine biota; changes in marine water quality, sediment
composition, or biological communities; and absence of sensitive
marine organisms from the site. Decisions on specific monitoring
activities to determine long-term effects will be based in part
upon the results of earlier monitoring results. Specific
activities associated with this monitoring effort have not yet
been determined, although EPAls currently evaluating the
usefulness and practicality of including bioaccumulation studies
in this tier. Examples of such activities might include the
following:
Water-column chemistry and microbiology for waste
tracers that may be detected above background levels
even after extensive dilution. These tracers
include organic compounds, such as PCBs and
coprostanol; metals, such as zinc, iron, and lead;
and microbiological constituents such as Clostridium
perfringens (O'Connor et al., 1985).
Sediment chemistry and microbiology for the same
constituents analyzed in the water column.
5-12
-------
tissue analyses of species living in or near the
seafloor, e.g., tilefish, or in the water column,
e.g., squid, to determine whether toxic materials
are .accumulating in their tissues.
Studies of the distribution and abundance of
sensitive stages of fish and invertebrate
populations, such as eggs and larvae, in the site.
Data could be compared to data already collected by
NOAA as part of the Marine Resources Monitoring,
Assessment, and Prediction program {MARMAP).
Endangered species observations to assess any
changes in distributions of whales or turtles in the
vicinity of the 106-Mile Site.
Analyses of benthic infaunal communities to
determine whether there are any detectable
biological effects in the deep sea. Results would
be compared with other benthic studies conducted in
the same general area before the commencement of
sludge dumping.
5.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE
The EPA policy on quality assurance (QA; Administrator's
memoranda, 30 May 1979, 14 June 1979; EPA Order 5360.1, "Policy
and Program Requirements to Implement the Quality Assurance
Program," 3 April 1984) stipulates.that every monitoring and
measurement project must have a written and approved quality
assurance plan. The goal of EPA's QA Program is to ensure that
all measurements supported by EPA are of known and acceptable
quality. For the 106-Mile Site monitoring program, this goal is
achieved by a program that sets standards for personnel
qualifications; facilities, equipment, and services; data
generation and recordkeeping; and data quality assessments.
5-13
-------
5.3.1 Personnel Qualifications
For a quality monitoring program, it is important that all
personnel performing tasks and functions related to data quality
be appropriately qualified and adequately trained. For the
106-Mile Site monitoring program, the person in charge of each
specific unit of work identified as a project is responsible for
ensuring that personnel working on that project are qualified and
trained. Records of qualifications and training of personnel
must be kept current so that training can be verified.
Persons with quality assurance responsibilities for the
monitoring program must be technically qualified. Because it is
their responsibility to make unbiased assessments of work being
performed, they themselves should not be personally involved in
generation of data.
5.3.2 Facilities, Equipment, and Services
All facilities, equipment and services used for the 106-Mile
Site monitoring program must be appropriate for their intended
use and properly maintained. Vessels to be used in field
activities must be appropriate to accommodate equipment used for
sample collection and on-board analyses. Analytical facilities
must be equipped with instrumentation suitable for conducting the
analyses required by the monitoring program.
5.3.3 Data Generation and Recordkeeping
Data collected for the 106-Mile Site monitoring program
must be recorded directly, promptly, legibly, and indelibly, so
that data will be easily traceable. Data entries must be dated
on the date of entry and signed or initialed by the person making
5-14
-------
the measurement and_ the person- entering the data. Changes to
entries must not obscure the original entry and must indicate the
reason for the change, the person making the change, and the date
of change. In computer-driven data collection systems, the
person responsible for direct data input will be identified at
the time of input.
Quality Assurance Project Plans, developed in accordance
with OWRS QA-1, "Guidance for the Preparation of Combined
Work/Quality Assurance Project Plans for Environmental
Monitoring," May 1984, must be prepared for all specific units of
work associated with the 106-Mile Site monitoring program.
Topics covered in these documents include provisions for.l) name
of the project, 2) what agency requested it, 3) date of the
request, 4) date of project initiation, 5) project officer, 6)
quality assurance officer, 7) project description, 8) project
fiscal information, 9) schedule of tasks and products, 10)
project organization and responsibilities, 11) data quality
requirements and assessments, 12) sampling and analytical
procedures, 13) sample custody procedures, 14) equipment
calibration and maintenance procedures, 15) data reduction and
reporting, 16) data validation, 17) performance and systems
audits, 18) corrective action, and 19) reports. Each monitoring
activity identified as a separate project must have a Work/QA
Project Plan written and approved by EPA before any monitcring
activities are performed.
Like Work/QA Project Plans, Standard Operating Procedures
(SOPs) ensure that all persons conducting work are following the
same procedures and that the procedures do not change over time.
SOPs have been prepared for use of equipment and facilities,
measurements, and other aspects of work that impact data quality
for the 106-Mile Site monitoring program. SOPs for activities
5-15
-------
and measurements that are alre.ady being made for the program are
maintained with general QA Plans for conduct of field and ,
laboratory activities for the monitoring program. Additional
SOPs will be prepared as specific activities are selected for use
in the program.
5.3.4 Data Quality Assessment
Data validation for the 106-Mile Site Monitoring Program
involves all procedures used to accept or reject data after
collection and prior to use, including editing, screening,
checking, auditing, verifying, and reviewing. Data validation
procedures ensure that the standards for data accuracy and
precision were met, that data were generated in accordance with
the Work/QA Project Plan and SOPs, and that data are traceable
and defensible. It is important for all reported data to be
properly validated following standardized procedures to ensure
that data are of consistent and documented quality.
EPA representatives participate in field surveys to the
106-Mile Site, and the EPA management authority for the program
may require that certain samples be routinely submitted to EPA
laboratories for analysis. These activities provide an inde-
pendent quality assurance check on activities being performed and
on data being generated.
5.4 DATA MANAGEMENT
All data generated under the 106-Mile Site monitoring
program must be readily identifiable and traceable, so that they
will be available to the variety of persons who will wish to use
them. Ideally, a single.data management system will be able to
track samples in the field and the laboratory, accommodate data
reduction and analysis, and provide for storage and retrieval of
data throughout the monitoring program.
5-16
-------
6. REFERENCES
Bisagni, J.J. Lagrangian Measures of Near-Surface Waters at the 106-
Mile Site, NOAA Tech. Memo. OMPA-11, Office of Marine Pollution
Assessment, U.S. Dept. of Commerce Pub. 23 pp.
Bothner, M.H., E.Y. Campbell, G.P. DeLisio, C.M. Parmenter, R.R.
Rendigs,-M.W. Doughten, R.6. Johnson, J.R. Gillison, and N. Rait.
1986. Analysis of Trace Metals in Bottom Sediments in Support of
Deepwater Biological Processes Studies on the U.S. Mid-Atlantic
Continental Slope and Rise. Second Interim Report to the U.S.
Minerals Management Service. 55pp.
Camp, Dresser, and McKee. 1984. Environmental Impacts of Municipal
Sludge Disposal at Deep Ocean Sites. Prepared for EPA. 90 pp.
Csanady, G.T. and P. Hamilton. 1987. Circulation of slopewater.
Submitted to Continental Shelf Research.
Ecological Analysts, Inc. and SEAMOcean, Inc. 1983. A Special Permit
Application for the Disposal of Sewage Sludge from Twelve New York
City Water Pollution Control Plants at the 12-Mile Site. Volumes
I-II. Prepared for City of New York, Department of Environmental
Protection.
EG&G Consultants. 1983. Assessment for Future Environmental Problems -
Ocean Dumping. Prepared for EPA.
EPA. 1977. Proposed revisions to ocean dumping criteria. Final
Environmental Impact Statement. Volumes I-II. Oil and Special
Materials Control Division, Office of Water Program Operations,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.
EPA. 1980 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the 106-Mile Ocean
Waste Disposal Site Designation. Final. Oil and Special
Materials Control Division, Marine Protection Branch, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.
EPA. 1986. Studies Conducted in the Vicinity of the 106-Mile Deepwater
Municipal Sludge Site. Environmental Protection Agency Oceans and
Coastal Protection Division (formerly OMEP), Washington, DC.
EPA. 1988. Final Report of Analytical Results of the 106-Mile
Deepwater Sludge Dumpsite Survey-Summer 1986. Environmental
Protection Agency Oceans and Coastal Protection Division (formerly
OMEP), Washington, DC.
EPA. 1992. Final Draft Implementation Plan for the 106-Mile Deepwater
Municipal Sludge Site Monitoring Program. Environmental
Protection Agency. EPA 842-S-92-010.
6-1
-------
Flagg, C.N./D.E. Frye, and P.R. Daifuku. 1985. Analysis of
Circulation Characteristics in the Vicinity of Deepwater Dumpsite
106. NOAA Tech. Memo. NOS DMA 13. 60 pp.
Greig, R. and D^ Wenzloff. 1977. Final report on heavy metals in small
pelagic finfish, euphasiid crustaceans, and apex predators,
including sharks, as well as on heavy metals and hydrocarbons
(C15+) in sediments collected at stations in and near Deepwater
Dumpsite 106. In: Baseline Report of Environmental Conditions in
Deepwater Dumpsite 106. Volume III: Contaminant Inputs and
Chemical Characteristics. NOAA Dumpsite Evaluation Report 77-1.
798 pp.
Hausknecht, K.A. 1977. Results of studies on the distribution of some
transition and heavy metals at Deepwater Dumpsite 106. In:
Baseline Report of Environmental Conditions in Deepwater Dumpsite
106. Volume III: Contaminant Inputs and Chemical
Characteristics. NOAA Dumpsite Evaluation Report 77-1. 798 pp.
Ingham, H.C., J.J. Bisagni, and D. Mizenko. 1977. The general physical
oceanography of Deepwater Dumpsite 106. In: Baseline Report of
Environmental Conditions in Deepwater Dumpsite 106. Volume I:
Physical Characteristics. NOAA Dumpsite Report 77-1. 798 pp.
Haciolek, N., J.F. Grassle, B. Hecker, P.D. Boehm, B. Brown, B. Dade, W.
Steinhauer, E. Baptiste, R.E. Ruff and R. Petracca. 1987. Study
of the Biological Processes on the U.S. Mid-Atlantic Slope and
Rise. Final Report to the U.S. Department of the Interior,
Minerals Management Service. Volume I and II.
NOAA. 1977. Baseline Report on Environmental Conditions in Deepwater
Dumpsite 106. Volumes I-III. NOAA Dumpsite Evaluation Report 77-
1. 798 pp.
NOAA. 1983. 106-Mile Characterization Update. NOAA Tech. Memo. NMFS-
F/NEC-26.
O'Conner, T.P., H.A. Walker, J.F. Paul, and V.J. Bierman. 1985. A
Strategy for Monitoring of Contaminant Distributions Resulting
from Proposed Sewage Sludge Disposal at the 106-Mile Ocean
Disposal Site, 24 pp.
Payne, M.P., L.A. Selzer, and A.R. Knowton. 1984. Distribution and
Density of Cetaceans, Marine Turtles, and Seabirds in Shelf Waters
of the Northeastern United States, June 1980 - December 1983,
Based on Shipboard Observations. NOAA/NMFS Contract No. NA-81-FA-
C-00023.
Pearce, J.B., J. Thomas, and R. Grieg. 1975. Preliminary investigation
of benthic resources at Deepwater Dumpsite 106. In: May 1974
6-2
-------
Baseline Investigation of Deepwater Dumpsite 106.
Evaluation Report 75-1. 388 pp.
NOAA Dumpsite
Pearce, J.B., J.V. Caracciolo, and F. Steimle. 1977. Final Report on
benthic infauna of Deepwater Dumpsite 106 and adjacent areas. In:
Baseline Report on Environmental Conditions in Deepwater Dumpsite
106. NOAA Dumpsite Evaluation Report 77-1. 798 pp.
SAIC. 1985. Mid-Atlantic Slope and Rise Physical Oceanography Study
(MASAR/POS). Semi-Annual Report No. 2 to the U.S. Minerals
Management Service. 61 pp. and Appendix A.
Santoro, E.D. and D.J. Suszkowski. 1986. Current status: Phase-out of
ocean dumping of sewage sludge in the New York Bight Apex, Sixth
International Ocean Disposal Symposium, Asilomar Conference
Center, Pacific Grove, California, April 21-25, 1986.
Segar, D.A. and E. Stammen. 1985. A Strategy for Design of Marine
Pollution Monitoring Studies for the IAWPRC/NERC Specialized
Conference, Plymouth, England.
Segar, D.A., E. Stammen, and P.6. Davis. 1984. Criteria for
Development of a Monitoring Program for the North Atlantic
Deepwater Dumpsite. 10 pp.
Walker, H.A., J.F. Paul, and V.J. Bierman, Jr. 1987. Methods for waste
load allocation of municipal sewage sludge at the 106-Mile Ocean
Disposal Site, Environ. Tox. Chem. 6:475-489.
Warsh, C.E. 1975. Physical oceanographic observations at Deepwater
Dumpsite 106 - May 1974. Jn: May 1974 Baseline Investigation of
Deepwater Dumpsite 106. NOAA Dumpsite Evaluation Report 75-1. 388
PP-
Zeller, R. M. and T.A. Hastier. 1986.
Will Minimize Data Requirements.
Strategies Symposium. 6 pp.
Tiered Ocean Disposal Monitoring
Oceans 86 Volume 3, Monitoring
6-3
-------
------- |