UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ADMINISTRATION
ALASKA WATER LABORATORY
QUARTERLY RESEARCH REPORT
JANUARY I-MARCH 31
ALASKA WATER LABORATORY
College, Alaska 99701
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ALASKA WATER LABORATORY
The Laboratory has been the site of a series of meetings
during the quarter with representatives of the oil industry, equip-
ment manufacturers, staff of the Alaska Water Laboratory and Arctic
Health Research Center, and representatives of the Alaska Departmen
of Health and Welfare, concerning waste treatment needs on the NocH
Slope. Progress is being made in the education process of both the
equipment manufacturers and oil industry personnel. One important
outcome of these meetings has been several inquiries on the researr
development and demonstration grant program. We expect to see on*3
or more good grant applications come out of these associations<,
The Alaska Water Laboratory has made an agreement with the
Institute of Marine Sciences of the University of Alaska, to use
the AWL's facilities for the housing and utilization of their Ultr-
violet Organic Carbon Recovery Unit. This agreement was made in
accordance with the Alaska Water Laboratory's policy to make the
Laboratory more available to qualified university scientists when
there is a direct relationship between this use and the Laboratory
research mission.
The Laboratory reviewed and commented on a research propos?1
entitled "Investigations on Possible Effects of Crude Oil on
Aquatic Organisms of the Central Alaskan Fisheries.'" Two other
proposals are currently under review and will be completed in Apn1,,
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Preparations are being made to present two FWPCA training courses
at the Laboratory. "Survey of Chemical Analyses for Water Quality,"
and "Survey of Current Practices in Water Microbiology" will be presented
April 13-17, 1970, and April 20-24, 1970, respectively. This is the
first time either course has been offered in Alaska and a heavy enrol1-
ment is expected.
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WATER QUALITY SECTION
PROJECT: SAGAVANIRKTOK RIVER BASIN STUDY:
Objectives:
To provide baseline water quality information on the Saga-
vanirktok River system and the immediate industrial region of the
developing oil field.
Work Accomplished Third Quarter FY 1970:
Microbiological, aquatic biology, and chemical samples from
both the June and August trips, except for the final taxonomy of
the diatoms and certain of the aquatic insects, have been assayed
and tabulated. As soon as the winter sampling data is available,
the manuscript will be completed.
Fourth Quarter FY 1970 Work Plan:
Complete the third and final sampling trip in late April.
Complete the manuscript for publication,, The team for the final
sampling trip will include an aquatic biologist from the Alaska
Water Laboratory, a chemist from our Operations Office in Anchorage,
and a representative for the United States Geological Survey. To
provide the additional basic data that the Operations Office needs
for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline evaluation, the team will continue
the sample collection south to the Yukon River crossing. Samples
will be analyzed for chemical and bacteriological parameters.
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PROJECT; BACTERIAL QUALITY OF ALASKA WATER; I. COLIFORM CONTENT
OF ALASKA WATER:
Objectives;
1. To obtain from all sources, the accumulated coliform data
for the past three years.
2. To separate the information into surface water data and
ground water data.
3. To sort the data into geographical categories* particularly
with reference to streams and centers of population, and compile
the Information in a suitable form.
4. To prepare a summary and evaluation of the data and the
Information it presents.
Work Accomplished Third Quarter FY 1970:
The scattered laboratory data on the coliform content of
Alaska water have been collected and sorted into surface and ground-
water categories. This data has now been separated into geographical
divisions with special reference to streams and centers of population.
The tabulated material will be mimeographed and distributed to the
FWPCA and State health workers.
Fourth Quarter FY 1970 Work Plan;
Complete analysis of data and organize all of the material for
publication.
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PRQJECT: BACTERIAL QUALITY OF ALASKA WATER; II. DIE-OFF RATE
OF ENTERIC INDICATOR BACTERIA IN A SUBARCTIC ALASKAN RIVER:
Objectives:
The objectives of this study of the Tanana River from its con-
fluence with the Chena River to its confluence with the Yukon River
are as follows:
1. To determine the rate of reduction in numbers of fecal
indicator bacteria.
2. To determine changes in the chemical parameters which are
associated with domestic wastes.
3. To establish the time required for a water mass to travel
from the mouth of the Chena River to the mouth of the Tanana River.
Work Accomplished During Third Quarter FY 1970:
The collection of field data was done during the two-week
period of February 23, 1970, to March 5, 1970. Tabulation of the
bacteriological data on the total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and
enterococci is completed and suggest that there is a fairly high
degree of survival of these organisms after the approximately 8
days of flow time through the 200+ miles of river under study.
Actual die-off rate analysis cannot be made until the results of
the discharge measurements and dye study, done by the U.S. Geolo-
gical Survey personnel during the study, are completed. The role
of chemical parameters are also awaiting completion of analysis.
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Numerous problems were encountered in the field* They were
mainly bad flying weather, icing of equipment, freezing of some
samples, and -75° to -100° F chill factors at some of the sampling
stations. Because of the conditions encountered, a side benefit
of debugging field gear, which will be used on the extended field
trip to the North Slope oil field next month, was possible.
The amount of work generated by this study required a con-
centrated team effort by numerous Laboratory personnel working
many extra hours and odd hours to handle the samples each day,.
Fourth Quarter FY 1970 Work Plan:
As soon as all of the results are received, writeup will begin.
The paper should be finished by the end of the quarter.
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PROJECT: SIGNIFICANCE OF WINTER DISSOLVED OXYGEN IN ALASKA:
Objectives:
1. To determine the extent and significance of the dissolved
oxygen reduction in arctic and subarctic streams under winter
conditions.
2. To determine the effects of the lowered dissolved oxygen
levels on the aquatic organisms while under simulated arctic or
subarctic conditions.
Work Accomplished Third Quarter FY 1970:
The collection of winter dissolved oxygen data from the Chena,
Chatanika, and Salcha Rivers continued. The level of dissolved
oxygen ranged from 1.0 mg/1 in the Chena River on February 16,
to the high of 9.1 in the Chatanika River, at the Steese Highway
bridge, on January 21. In general, the Chatanika and Salcha Rivers
exhibited similar oxygen reductions but at a higher percent of
saturation than the Chena River. Last quarter, the Chatanika and
Salcha Rivers hovered in the 9 to 10 mg/1 range but the level
dropped to 6.8 in the Salcha and 9.1 in the Chatanika. In the
third quarter 1970, the waters of the Chena underwent a dissolved
oxygen reduction of nearly 4.5 mg/1 at Station 600. The level
fell from an average of 8. to about 3.5. In the Lower Chena
River, Station 100, the oxygen levels were reduced from values
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slightly greater than 5 in December to under 3 in January and
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February.
Routine checking of the Living Stream system for problem
areas continued. The refrigeration system was monitored for varia-
tion and reliability. Two fully functional systems were made
operational and checked for leaks. Five species of fish were
collected from the Chena River and placed in the tanks to deter-
mine the unsuitabilityfor fish study. Observations were made on
the size limitations of the fish that can be used. The charcoal
filter system was activated to observe the effectiveness in
purifying the circulated water, as well as determine the "load"
that the filter can handle. Observations were made on the suit-
ability of commercial food for feeding the different species of
fish while in the holding tanks.
Fourth Quarter FY 1970 Work Plan:
Continue the field work to document the dissolved oxygen
trends in the selected streams. Continue working with the Living
Stream system to determine the working capability and limitations
of the system.
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PROJECT: THE ROLE OF MICROORGANISMS AT LOW TEMPERATURES IN
ALASKA RIVERS:
Objectives:
1. Determine the rate and extent of oxygen consumption by
the mixed bacterial population in a subarctic stream at 0°, 5°,
10°, 15° and 20°C, using laboratory substrates,
2. Determine the rate and extent of oxygen consumption by
the mixed bacterial population in a subarctic stream at 0°, 5°,
10°, 15° and 20°C, using domestic sewage effluent which has received
various degrees of treatment as the substrate.
3. Determine if there is a relationship between (2) size and
composition of the bacterial population, (b) type and amount of sub-
strate available, (c) natural environmental characteristics, and
oxygen consumption at each temperature,
Work Accomplished During Third Quarter FY 1970:
It has been necessary to stop work on the selection of a
complex medium for plate counts to enable more rapid progress on
the oxygen depletion portion of this study.
The metabolic study involving the rate and extend of oxygen
utilization by microorganisms using laboratory substrates has been
accepted for presentation at the Symposium on Water Pollution
Control in Cold Climates to be held in Fairbanks during late July
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1970. Work on this portion ef the project is continuing at an
accelerated pace In order to have the results ready for presenta-
tion. A method of aerating and adjusting the temperature of the
river water, plus substrste tc the desired incubation temperature
before distribution into BOD bottles has been devised. This makes
it possible to have better control of the experimental conditions
when comparing oxygen depletion of one substrate at several
incubation temperatures, several substrates at one incubation
temperature and between water samples. As previously noted, a
mixture of ami no acids gave the most rapid rate of oxygen deple-
tion. The rate limiting effect of the amount of the amino acid
mixture was determined and 120 mg/1 of river water was found to be
enough to remove the limiting effect of the substrate on the rate of
oxygen depletion, When this amount of substrate was utilized at the
incubation temperatures between Oc and 20°C, the 20°C incubation
temperature was found to give a shorter lag phase before the start
of oxygen depletion than the 15CC incubation temperatures. This is
in contrast to the earlier findings that the lag phase was the same
at 15° and 20°C, using a lower amount of the amino acid substrate.
Glucose was previously found to be poorly utilized as a substrate
for oxygen depletion by the microflora in the river. Work just
completed has shown that either added nitrogen or phosphorus has
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a small effect on the rate of oxygen utilization with glucose as
the substrate and that a mixture of nitrogen and phosphorus increases
the rate nearly equal to that found with the ami no acid mixture.
Fourth Quarter FY 1970 Work Plan:
The detailed work on oxygen consumption by the microflora in
a subarctic river will be completed. A very brief study using
samples from an arctic river will be done to compare the two rivers.
Write-up of the results for presentation will be completed on
or about June 15, 1970.
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WASTE TREATMENT SECTION
PROJECT: ALASKA APPLICATION OF WASTE STABILIZATION LAGOON:
Objectives:
To demonstrate the feasibility of waste stabilization lagoon
application in Alaska, particularly utilizing winter storage and
summer treatment capabilities. To develop design criteria for
setting loadings, for operational schemes, etc. To investigate
materials utilization and other design factors to minimize costs.
Work Completed Third Quarter FY 1970:
The lagoon has been freezing solid during filling operations
(approximately 5/7" liquid/day). During warmer weather in March,
leakage started. Thermal expansion of ice from -30° to +30°F is
thought to have cracked the 24" reinforced concrete lining.
Work Plan Fourth Quarter FY 1970:
1. Pump down the lagoon as soon as the ice melts to determine
the failure mode and begin repairs.
2. Initiate studies on the Ft. Yukon, Alaska, stabilization
pond, which has a population equivalent of 63 and a spring surface
area of 1/2 acre. The lagoon is located 8 miles north of the
Arctic Circle.
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3. Define sludge accumulation and bacteriology.
4. Study algal effects and compare with aerated lagoons,
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PROJECT: COLD REGIONS AERATED LAGOON;
Objectives:
To establish design criteria for the aerated lagoon waste
treatment process in Alaska. Design criteria will include opera-
tional efficiency versus loading, evaluation of construction methods.
evaluation of types of feasible equipment, and process modifications
to provide more efficient plant utilization. To evaluate parameters
and contribution to effluent quality, power and maintenance costs,
and reliability.
Work Completed Third Quarter FY 1970:
HC1 gas cleaning and evaluation of the Hinde tubing has been
completed. An aeration system, utilizing one type disc diffusers
(Aer-o-flo), has been installed and is being evaluated. A sampling
trip was made to the Northway aerated lagoon on March 30.
A report entitled "Research on Multi-cell Sub-Arctic Aerated
Lagoons" is in preparation. It will include data from the Eielson
Air Force Base and Northway lagoons.
The Eielson lagoon is being converted from a six cell to a
four cell system.
Work Plan Fourth Quarter FY 1970:
1. Evaluate a four cell system and compare to a six cell
system.
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2. Complete report "Research on Multi-cell Sub-Arctic Aerated
Lagoons."
3. Initiate studies upon algal effects and compare with s
stabilization ponds.
4. Define sludge accumulation problems and bacteriology,
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PROJECT: ALASKA EXTENDED AERATION:
Objective:
Development of adequate design criteria for application of
extended aeration in Alaska.
Work Completed Third Quarter FY 1970:
Operation of the extended aeration basin at Eielson Air Force
Base was terminated in January. Heavy sludge accumulations under
the tube settler module hoppers blocked solids return to the system.
The resulting heavy solids concentration in the effluent plugged the
effluent lines. In an attempt to keep the settling tube overflow
rates low, the influent flow rate was reduced and the total BOD
load maintained at a high level by feeding primary sludge to the
system. Extensive surface icing occurred under these conditions
with over 90 percent of the MLSS becoming entrained in the ice.
Tw^ model tube settler reactors have been fabricated to study
the problems encountered with the extended aeration basin and to
define the settling characteristics of tube settlers of various
sizes. One of the models has been operated at a 12-hour detention
time for 6 weeks with studies on the influences of temperature
changes through a range of 0,5°C to 8°C being conducted. Bio-
kinetic data and settling information at various overflow rates
has been collected.
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Constant reactor temperatures of 0,5°C and 4°C resulted in
stable operation; whereas, operation at 8°C resulted in a bulking
sludge which passed in the effluent at very low loading rates.
The reactor temperature has been dropped to less than 1°C again
and the feed cut off, in an attempt to stop the sludge bulking.
The second reactor has been placed in operation and is expected
to stabilize within 2-3 weeks for data collection.
Work Plan Fourth Quarter FY 1970:
1„ Continue laboratory tests to define the settling character-
istics of tube settlers of various sizes.
2, Continue laboratory tests to determine the influences of
temperature changes on a 12-.hour and 24-hour detention time extended
aeration system for the ranges of ,5°C to 12°C.
3. Attempt to define the sludge bulking problem which occurs
at temperatures around 8°C.
4. Further define the surface icing phenomena through labora-
tory testing.
5. Determine the effects on DO transfer of extremely low air
temperatures used in aeration.
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CONSOLIDATED LABORATORY SERVICES
Work Accomplished Third Quarter FV 1970:
A comprehensive computer program Is being developed for
handling all laboratory data, to serve as a review of computa-
tions by staff and a storage and processing system. Because of
the limitations of staff, progress is made slowly.
Final editing was completed for STORE! of all data collected
and analyzed for the pipeline and North Slope studies during 1969.
Analysis of samples from the cold room reactor systems and the
Eielson aerated lagoon is being continued. Of particular concern
are COD, BOD, solids, and nutrients,
Samples were analyzed in connection with the study of die-off
rate of bacteria in low temperatures„ Analysis for nutrients has
yet to be completed„
Work Plan Fourth Quarter FV 1970;
Projects are currently planned in which Consolidated Laboratory
Services will be participating include:
lo Bering River Survey (Operations).
2. Pipeline Study (Operations),
3o Forest Service Fertilization Project (Operations),
4o Sagavanrrktok River Basin Study (Research).
5, Waste Treatment pilot plant and bench scale sample
analysis (Research),
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PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
Richard W. Latimer presented material on arctic and subarctic
environmental conditions affecting water pollution control to State
officials on January 5, 1970.
Ernst W. Mueller spoke before the 16th Annual Conservation
and Resource Management Course conducted by the University of Alaska,
Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit,,on Alaska's waters and water
pollution.
Ernst W. Mueller also spoke before the Oceanography 693 class
at the University of Alaska on "Biology and Chemistry of Arctic
Rivers."
A research report "Effects of Forest Fires on Water Quality
in Interior Alaska," by Frederick B. Lotspeich, Ernst W. Mueller,
and Paul Frey, has been published and is being readied for distri-
bution.
Frederick B. Lotspeich prepared a short paper entitled
"Industrial Development and Environmental Protection in Arctic
Alaska" to be published in Marine Pollution Bulletin.
The Alaska Water Laboratory, collaborating with the Arctic
Health Research Center and the State Department of Health and
Welfare, has been invited to publish a series of monthly articles
in the "Arctic Oil Journal" starting in May 1970.
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Alaska Water Laboratory Seminars:
January 9 Joe Holty, "Air Quality in Fairbanks-Ice Fog"
January 23 Jerry Hok, "Lasting Effects of Tracked Vehicles
on the Arctic Tundra"
February 6 Daniel Hawkins, "Radioactive Wastes"
February 20 Conrad Christiansen, "Activated Sludge at Low
Temperatures"
March 20 Bob Krumm, "Environmental Guidelines Associated
With Oil Activities"
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TRAVEL
Ernst W. Mueller went to the Pacific Northwest Water Laboratory
in Con/all is, Oregon, to confer with the staff of the Consolidated
Laboratory there.
Richard W. Latimer and Sidney E, Clark went to Washington,
D.C., for 1600 Research Program review.
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VISITORS TO THE ALASKA WATER LABORATORY
VI Visitors to the Alaska Water Laboratory during this quarter were:
Mr. James L. Agee, Northwest Regional Director, Mr. Oscar Dlckason,
Director, Alaska Operations Office in Anchorage, and Mr. Keith Stewart,
Aquatic Biologist, also from the Alaska Operations Office.
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PUBLIC RELATIONS
The Alaska Water Laboratory's FWPCA display was completed and
was set up in the Capitol Building in Juneau where it can be viewed
by the State legislators, who are now in session, and by the general
public. In the future, this display will be moved from city to city
throughout the state for public viewing.
Tours of the Laboratory facilities were given to 100 high school
science students and several college students during the quarter.
Three-hundred, thirty-seven copies of F- B Lotspeich's reprint
"Water Pollution in Alaska: Present and Future" (Science, December
1969), were requested and sent.
Twenty-three copies of the publication "Practice of Water Pollu-
tion Biology" were asked for and mailed.
Eleven copies of the publication "Ecological Changes in the Chene
River," and four copies of the report "Effects of Placer Mining on
Water Quality in Alaska" were requested and mailed. Both are Alaska
Water Laboratory publications
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